Question 9

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for Option D (Both vessels alter course to starboard):** Option D is correct because it directly reflects the rules for power-driven vessels meeting head-on under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which apply to both International and Inland waters (where specific inland rules do not supersede this fundamental requirement). Rule 14 (Head-on situation) explicitly states: 1. When two power-driven vessels are meeting on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses so as to involve risk of collision each shall **alter her course to starboard** so that each shall pass on the port side of the other. 2. This maneuver is mandatory when a head-on risk exists, establishing a clear, predictable, and mutually understood action to prevent collision. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **A) Sound at least five short and rapid blasts:** This signal (the danger or doubt signal, Rule 34(d)) indicates that the signaling vessel does not understand the intentions or actions of the other vessel or doubts that sufficient action is being taken. While it might be used *in addition* to maneuvering if confusion arises, it is **not** the required, primary, collision-avoiding maneuver in a head-on situation. **B) Back down:** "Backing down" (reversing engines) is a drastic action that significantly reduces steerage way and stopping distance, but it is not the standard, required action for a head-on encounter. The primary action mandated by Rule 14 is altering course to starboard. **C) Both vessels shall stop their engines:** Stopping engines (Rule 19(d) for restricted visibility, or sometimes as a component of "stopping way" under Rule 8 for action to avoid collision) might be used to gain time for assessment, but it is typically insufficient on its own. Rule 14 requires a positive, directional action (altering course to starboard) to ensure the vessels pass clear of each other. Simply stopping the engines does not guarantee collision avoidance.