Question 49

The Correct Answer is A ### Explanation of Correct Option (A) Option A, **Sidelights and a special flashing light**, is correct based on U.S. Inland Rules of the Road (specifically, 33 CFR Subchapter E, Inland Navigation Rules). 1. **Sidelights:** A vessel being pushed ahead is considered a vessel underway and must show the standard navigation lights appropriate for its size, which includes red and green sidelights (Rule 23). 2. **Special Flashing Light:** Rule 24(g)(i) specifically addresses lights for barges being pushed ahead in a flotilla, not being part of a composite unit. It states that the vessel being pushed must exhibit "A special flashing light at the forward end." This light is yellow, synchronized, and flashes at a specific rate (50-70 flashes per minute). This distinctive light is crucial for identifying the head of an inland tow. ### Explanation of Incorrect Options **B) Sidelights, a towing light, and a stern light** * **Incorrect:** A vessel being pushed ahead does not exhibit a towing light (which is an additional yellow light above the stern light, reserved for the pushing vessel itself or a vessel engaged in towing astern). Furthermore, while vessels typically show a stern light, the Inland Rules exempt the barge being pushed ahead from showing a stern light when being pushed in a flotilla, as its stern is obscured by the pushing vessel. **C) Sidelights, a special flashing light, and a stern light** * **Incorrect:** While sidelights and the special flashing light are required, the barge being pushed ahead in this configuration (not part of a composite unit) is **not** required to show a stern light (see explanation for B). **D) Sidelights and a stern light** * **Incorrect:** This combination omits the required **special flashing light** (Rule 24(g)(i)), which is mandatory for vessels being pushed ahead in inland waters. Furthermore, it incorrectly includes the stern light.