Coast Guard Exams
Question 108Rules of the Road90% to pass

BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND You see another vessel approaching, and its compass bearing does not significantly change. What does this indicate?

AI Explanation
The correct answer is B) risk of collision exists. When the compass bearing of another vessel does not significantly change, it indicates that the two vessels are on a constant bearing, which means they are on a collision course. This is a clear sign that a risk of collision exists, and both vessels need to take appropriate action to avoid a collision, as per the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS). The other options are incorrect because: A) being the stand-on vessel does not necessarily mean there is a risk of collision; C) a special circumstances situation is a separate concept that may or may not involve a risk of collision; and D) the other vessel being dead in the water would not result in a constant bearing.

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