MT-2161 - Rules of the Road

TOPIC - Part A-General

21A2
21A2.01
21A2.02

TOPIC - Rule 1—Application

• explains the application of the rules as set out in Rule 1 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules.
• explains the term "navigable waters".
• explains the term "state".
• explains the term "nation".
• explains the term "demarcation lines".
• explains the term "shapes".
• explains the term “traffic separation scheme".
• explains the term "vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver".
• explains the distinctive light arrays for the identification of submarines
• compares and analyses the differences between the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules for all conditions of application

TOPIC - Rule 2—Responsibility

• states the responsibility to comply with the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules as set out in Rule 2.
• describes the "Rule of Good Seamanship" and cites examples of precautions which may be required by the ordinary practice of seamen or by the special circumstances of the case
• describes the "General Prudential Rule" and gives examples of circumstances which may make a departure from the rules necessary

TOPIC - Rule 3—General Definitions

• states the general definitions which apply throughout the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules.
• explains the term "vessel".
• explains the term "power-driven".
• explains the term "sailing vessel".
• explains the term "vessel engaged in fishing".
• explains the term "sailing vessel".
• explains the term "vessel not under command".
• explains the term "vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver".
• explains the term "vessel constrained by her draft" and why this term is not defined in the Inland Rules.
• explains the term "underway" and distinguishes between "underway" and "making way".
• explains the terms "length" and "breadth".
• explains the term "in sight of".
• explains the term "restricted visibility".
• explains the term "Western Rivers" as applicable in the Inland Rules.
• explains the term "Great Lakes" as applicable in the Inland Rules.
• explains the term "Secretary" as applicable in the Inland Rules.
• explains the term "Inland Waters" and "Waters specified by the Secretary" as applicable in the Inland Rules.
• explains the term "International Regulations" as applicable in the Inland Rules.

TOPIC - Rule 5—Look-out

• explains "a proper look-out", by stating that every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision, stranding and other hazards to navigation. In applying these principles, the following shall be observed:
• Whoever is keeping the look-out must be able to give full attention to that task and no duties shall be assigned or undertaken which would interfere with the keeping of a proper look-out.
• The duties of the person on look-out and helmsman are separate and the helmsman shall not be considered the person on look-out while hand steering.
• There may be circumstances in which the officer of the watch could be the sole look-out in daylight. This practice will not be followed aboard the training vessel.
• indicates that the primary function of the deck watch is the proper keeping of the look-out. Look-out is the fundamental building block upon which all other deck skills are built.
• explains that look-outs shall be posted as low down and far forward as possible in an unobstructed, all-round visual and aural location (sight, sound, touch and smell).
• states that look-outs should proceed to and from the bow and/or stern on the leeward side of the vessel.
• indicates that the look-out must remain on station until properly relieved. Do not allow anyone to relieve you until they have established their night vision or if for any reason you suspect that your relief is unable to carry-out the duties of look-out.
• explains that the look-out should call the bridge immediately whenever he/she is in danger or when the vessel starts to ship spray (white water) or he/she does not get properly relieved.
• states that the look-out must remain alert. Give his/her full and undivided attention to the duties of look-out. Do not sit or lounge about. Look-out (s) are expected to stand their watch. The look-out should not talk to others except as required by look-out duties while on watch.
• describes the methods for making look-out reports. Indicates look-out should speak in a loud, clear voice using proper procedures and phraseology using the sound powered telephone system (1-JV). States that look-out (s) should continue to repeat all look-out reports until acknowledged by the Watch Officer.
• explains that before reporting to look-out station, that the look-out should understand his/her duties. If the look-out does not understand his/her duties or any instruction which has been given, ask for a clarification from the person assigning the look-out duties. The look-out is an essential member of the bridge watch team. Look-out reports are critical to the safe navigation of every vessel. Report everything. It's your job!
• states that look-out (s) shall detect and report sightings of:
  • Distress signals
  • Persons in distress (e.g. Man overboard, shipwrecked survivors)
  • Vessels and/or aircraft in distress
  • Derelicts, wreckage, floating or partially submerged debris
  • Pollution incident (e.g. oil spill, a sheen on the water)
  • Vessel traffic and/or aircraft
  • Aids to navigation (e.g. navigation buoys and lights)
  • Hazards to navigation (land, sighting or hearing breaking serf, obstructions, discoloration of the water)
  • Reduction in visibility due to fog, mist, falling snow, heavy rainstorms, sandstorms, or any other similar cause.
  • Change in weather
  • Hearing other vessels or aids to navigation(e.g. bell, gong, fog horn or maneuvering signals)
  • Ice
  • Unusual sightings or any unreported change in the field of view or sector
• interprets the intent of "full appraisal of the situation and the risk of collision"
• explains the use of radar in the context of Rule 5

TOPIC - Rule 6—Safe Speed

• explains what is meant by a safe speed in the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules.
• describes, with reference to court cases, how "proper and effective action" and "within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions" may be interpreted. Discusses the ability to stop within half the distance of visibility.
• states the factors to be taken into account in determining a safe speed:
  • state of the visibility (*)
  • traffic density (*)
  • maneuverability of the vessel and stopping distances. (*) Use of the
  • maneuvering diagram and head reach predictions (33 CFR 164.35).
  • Presence and ramifications of background light or back scatter, weather conditions, current and proximity to navigational hazards, and under-keel clearance.
  (*) primary considerations when determining safe speed
• explains how the use of operational radar affects the determination of safe speed.
• Defines the term "steerageway".

TOPIC - Rule 7—Risk of Collision

• explains what is meant by risk of collision in the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules.
• describes the proper use of all means available including look-outs, electronic systems and proper operational procedures (use of engines and sound signaling apparatus, taking over the navigational, watch periodic checks of navigational equipment, compliance with SOLAS V/19 regarding the use of the automatic pilot, and the change-over to manual steering and vice-versa, electronic navigational aids, the use of radar/ARPA systems, and appropriate logbook entries) in determining whether a risk of collision exists
• describes the proper use of radar equipment and systemic observation in determining whether a risk of collision exists
• explains the dangers of making assumptions on the basis of scanty information, citing examples from clear weather as well as the use of radar
• illustrates, using examples from court cases, how failure to plot may lead to a lack of appreciation of a developing situation

TOPIC - Rule 8—Action to Avoid Collision

• describes, using examples from court decisions, the following actions to avoid collision referred to in Rule 8 of the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules:
• positive action in ample time large enough to be readily apparent with due regard to the observance of good seamanship
• alteration of course alone passing at a safe distance
• checking the effectiveness of action taken
• reduction of speed taking all way off.

TOPIC - Rule 9—Narrow Channels

• demonstrates an understanding of Rule 9 of the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules by:
• defining the terms "narrow channel" and "fairway"
• describing how to proceed along the course of a narrow channel
• describing the navigation of small craft and sailing vessels in a narrow channel
• stating the restrictions on crossing the channel or fairway
• describing the conduct of vessels engaged in fishing
• stating the procedure for overtaking in a narrow channel and the may/shall obligation on the use of the danger signal described in Rule 34 (d).
• describing the actions to be taken on nearing a bend in a narrow channel or fairway and the use of the "blind bend signal" described in Rule 34 (e)

TOPIC - Rule 10—Traffic Separation Schemes/Vessel Traffic Services of the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules

• defines the terms: "Organization", "traffic lane", "separation line", "separation zone", "inshore traffic zone".
• describes how to navigate in a traffic separation scheme with reference to:
  • entering and leaving the traffic separation scheme
  • entering and leaving traffic lanes
  • crossing lanes
  • the use of inshore traffic zones
  • crossing separation lines
  • entering separation zones other than when crossing
  • joining or leaving a lane
• states the requirements for vessels:
  • navigating in areas near the terminations of traffic separation schemes
  • anchoring
  • not using a traffic separation scheme
  • engaging in fishing in a traffic separation scheme
• states that a vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel must not impede the safe passage of a power-driven vessel following a traffic lane
• states the exemptions for vessels restricted in their ability to maneuver when engaged in an operation for the:
  • maintenance of safety of navigation
  • laying, servicing or picking up of a submarine cable
• explains the meaning of "precautionary area"
• defines "deep water route" and states for whom such a route is intended

TOPIC - Part B-Steering and Sailing Rules, Conduct of Vessels In Any Condition of Visibility

21A2
21A2.01
21A2.02

TOPIC - Rule 4—Application

• states that Section/Subpart I applies to all vessels in any condition of visibility as indicated in the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules.
• explains the legal tests for compliance with the steering and sailing rules as well as comparing and analyzing the differences between the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules for all conditions of application by:
  • states whether the rules apply to all vessels or power-driven vessels.
  • states whether the rules apply in any condition of visibility, to vessels in sight of one another or to vessels in not in sight of one another in restricted visibility
  • identifies whether the situation is a meeting, crossing or overtaking situation based upon visual observation of the lights and shapes displayed, compass bearings, or radar/ARPA information
  • understands the duties and obligations of the give-way, stand-on or overtaking/overtaken vessel and explains the conduct of vessels when interacting in compliance with the rules

TOPIC - Part B-Steering and Sailing Rules Conduct of Vessels In Sight of One Another

21A2
21A2.01
21A2.02

TOPIC - Rule 11—Application

• states that Section/Subpart II applies to all vessels in sight of one another as indicated in the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules.
• explains what is meant by "vessels in sight of one another"

TOPIC - Rule 12—Sailing Vessels

• demonstrates, with the use of drawings, models or simulators displaying proper signals and/or lights, the proper action to take in order to avoid collision with other vessels in sight

TOPIC - Rule 13—Overtaking

• explains the application of Rule 13, when any vessel is overtaking so as to involve risk of collision
• explains how to decide when a vessel is overtaking another vessel
• compares and analyses the various avoiding actions which may be taken by an overtaking vessel
• demonstrates, with the use of drawings, models or simulators displaying proper signals and/or lights, the proper action to take to avoid collision with other vessels in sight when overtaking or being overtaken

TOPIC - Rule 14—Head-on Situation

• explains the application of Rule 14, when power-driven vessels are meeting so as to involve risk of collision
• explains the duties and obligations of power-driven vessels meeting on the Great Lakes and Western Rivers of the United States, or waters specified by the Secretary
• demonstrates, with the use of drawings, models or simulators displaying proper signals and/or lights, the proper action to take to avoid collision with other vessels in sight when meeting end-on or nearly so (reciprocal courses).

TOPIC - Rule 15—Crossing Situation

• explains the application of Rule 15 when power-driven vessels are crossing so as to involve risk of collision
  • explains why the give-way vessel in a crossing situation shall, if the circumstances admit, avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel
  • explains the application of Rule 15 when crossing narrow channels and traffic lanes
  • explains the duties and obligations of power-driven vessels crossing on the Great Lakes and Western Rivers of the United States, or waters specified by the Secretary
  • demonstrates, with the use of drawings, models or simulators displaying proper signals and/or lights, the proper action to take to avoid collision with other vessels in sight when crossing.

TOPIC - Rule 16—Action by Give-way Vessel

• explains the application of Rule 16 when vessels are directed to keep out of the way of another vessel.
• explains how Rule 16 and Rule 8 relate regarding the action by a give-way vessel
• demonstrates, with the use of drawings, models or simulators displaying proper signals and/or lights, the proper action to take to avoid collision with other vessels in sight by the give-way vessel

TOPIC - Rule 17—Action by Stand-on Vessel

• explains the application of Rule 17 where a vessel is directed to keep her course and speed.
• explains the position of stand-on vessel in cases where a risk of collision exists between more than two vessels
• explains how to decide when to take avoiding action as stand-on vessel
• describes the actions which may be taken by the stand-on vessel
• states the avoiding action which must be taken by the stand-on vessel
• explains that a potential collision situation may be divided into the following four stages:
  • at long range, before risk of collision exists and both vessels are free to take any action
  • risk of collision applies, the give-way vessel is required to take action and the other vessel must keep her course and speed
  • the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action
  • collision cannot be avoided by the action of the give-way vessel alone
• demonstrates, with the use of drawings, models or simulators displaying proper signals and/or lights, the proper action to take to avoid collision with other vessels in sight by the stand-on vessel

TOPIC - Rule 18—Responsibilities Between Vessels

• explains the responsibilities between vessels with reference to Rules 18 and 3, except where Rules 9, 10, and 13 otherwise require
• explains that a "vessel constrained by her draft" is neither recognized nor accorded special privilege under the Inland Rules. However, the "Rule of Good Seamanship" and "General Prudential Rule" do apply in these cases.
• demonstrates, with the use of drawings, models or simulators displaying proper signals and/or lights, the proper action to take to avoid collision with other vessels in sight.

TOPIC - Part B-Steering and Sailing Rules, Conduct of Vessels In Restricted Visibility

21A2
21A2.01
21A2.02
21A3.07

TOPIC - Rule 19—Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility

• states that Section/Subpart III applies to all vessels not sight of one another in reduced visibility as indicated in the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules.
• explains what is meant by "restricted visibility"
• explains the application of Rule 19
• compares Rule 6 and Rule 19 regarding the determination of safe speed
• explains how courts have interpreted "a close-quarters situation"
• explains how courts have interpreted "navigate with extreme caution"
• demonstrates, with the use of drawings, maneuvering board or simulators displaying proper signals and/or lights and sounding required fog signals, how to determine risk of collision and the proper action to take to avoid collision in restricted visibility

TOPIC - Part C-Lights and Shapes

21A2
21A2.01
21A2.02

TOPIC - Rule 20—Application

• explains the application of the rules for lights and shapes as set out in Rule 20 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules.
• identifies the lights and shapes carried by any type of vessel based upon:
  • whether power-driven or non-power-driven
  • vessel length
  • whether underway, underway and making way, or not underway
  • task, operation or circumstances, including the additional signals for fishing vessels fishing in close proximity
  • maneuvering limitations due to the nature of her work, vessel control or equipment status
• states the application of the rules concerning lights and shapes regarding conditions of visibility, time of day, and proper display.
• demonstrates the ability to estimate a vessel's heading, speed and closest point of approach (CPA) using running lights
• explains how lights and shapes are utilized to determine the conduct of vessels as defined in the steering and sailing rules
• compares and analyses the differences between the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules for all conditions of application

TOPIC - Rule 21—Definitions

• states the definitions for the lights as prescribed by Rule 21.
• Describes the positioning, spacing and screening of lights
• explains the term "Masthead light"
• explains the term "Sidelights"
• explains the term "Sternlight"
• explains the term "Towing light"
• explains the term "All-round light"
• explains the term "Flashing light"
• explains the term "Special flashing light"

TOPIC - Rule 22—Visibility of Lights

• states that the lights prescribed in these rules shall have the intensity as specified in Annex I to these Rules, so as to be visible at the minimum ranges for the lights required by Rule 22

TOPIC - Rule 23—Power-driven Vessels Underway

• states that the lights and shapes as set out in Rule 23 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules shall be exhibited by power-driven vessels underway.

TOPIC - Rule 24—Towing and Pushing

• states that the lights and shapes as set out in Rule 24 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules shall be exhibited by power-driven vessels when towing and pushing.

TOPIC - Rule 25—Sailing Vessels Underway and Vessels Under Oars

• states that the lights and shapes as set out in Rule 25 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules shall be exhibited by sailing vessels underway and vessels under oars.

TOPIC - Rule 26—Fishing Vessels

• states that the lights and shapes as set out in Rule 26 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules shall be exhibited by fishing vessels.

TOPIC - Rule 27—Vessels Not Under Command or Restricted in Their Ability to Maneuver

• states that the lights and shapes as set out in Rule 27 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules shall be exhibited by vessels not under command or restricted in their ability to maneuver.

TOPIC - Rule 28—Vessels Constrained by Their Draft/[Reserved, Inland]

• states that the lights and shapes as set out in Rule 28 by the 72-COLREGS shall be exhibited by vessels constrained by their draft.
• explains that a "vessel constrained by her draft" is neither recognized nor accorded special privilege under the Inland Rules.

TOPIC - Rule 29—Pilot Vessels

• states that the lights and shapes as set out in Rule 29 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules shall be exhibited by pilot vessels.

TOPIC - Rule 30—Anchored Vessels and Vessels Aground

• states that the lights and shapes as set out in Rule 30 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules shall be exhibited by anchored vessels and vessels aground.

TOPIC - Rule 31—Seaplanes

• states that the lights and shapes as set out in Rule 31 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules shall be exhibited by seaplanes.

TOPIC - Part D-Sound and Light Signals

21A2
21A2.01
21A2.02

TOPIC - Rule 32—Definitions

• states the definition of terms for sound and light signaling as set out in Rule 32 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules.
• identifies the sound and light signals sounded by any type of vessel based upon:
  • whether power-driven or non-power-driven
  • vessel length
  • whether underway, underway and making way, or not underway
  • task, operation or circumstances, including the additional signals for fishing vessels fishing in close proximity
  • maneuvering limitations due to the nature of her work, vessel control or equipment status
• compares and analyses the differences between the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules for all conditions of application

TOPIC - Rule 33—Equipment for Sound Signals

• explains the equipment for sound signals as set out in Rule 33 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules.
• identifies the equipment for sound signals carried by any type of vessel and the operation or circumstances signified by them.

TOPIC - Rule 34—Maneuvering and Warning Signals

• describes the sound and light signals as set out in Rule 34 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules to be used by vessels in sight of one another

TOPIC - Rule 35—Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility

• describes the sound and light signals as set out in Rule 35 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules to be used in or near an area of restricted visibility

TOPIC - Rule 36—Signals to Attract Attention

• describes the sound and light signals as set out in Rule 36 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules to be used by vessels to attract attention

TOPIC - Rule 37—Distress Signals

• describes the sound and light signals as set out in Rule 37 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules to be used when a vessel is in distress and requires assistance

TOPIC - Part E-Exemptions

21A2.01
21A2.02

TOPIC - Rule 38—Exemptions

• states the exemptions from the rules for any vessel or class of vessels as set out in Rule 32 by the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules
• compares and analyses the differences between the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules for all conditions of application

TOPIC - Annexes 1 to 5

21A2
21A2.01
21A2.02

TOPIC - Annexes 1 to 5

• describes the Annexes to the Rules as set out in the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules.
• compares and analyses the differences between the 72-COLREGS and the Inland Rules for all conditions of application for:
  • ANNEX I—POSITIONING AND TECHNICAL DETAILS OF LIGHTS AND SHAPES
  • ANNEX II—ADDITIONAL SIGNALS FOR FISHING VESSELS FISHING IN CLOSE PROXIMITY
  • ANNEX III—TECHNICAL DETAILS OF SOUND SIGNAL APPLIANCES
  • ANNEX IV—DISTRESS SIGNALS
  • ANNEX V—[BLANK, International]/PILOT RULES

TOPIC - Interpretative rules

• illustrates, using examples from court cases, examples of interpretive rulings

21A2
21A2.01
21A2.02

TOPIC - Lines of demarcation

• identifies the general basis and purpose of demarcation lines.

21A2
21A2.01
21A2.02

TOPIC - Penalty provisions

• describes the penalty provisions for the following violations:
  • Violations of International Navigation Rules and Regulations (33 U.S.C. 1608)
  • Violations of Inland Navigation Rules and Regulations (33 U.S.C. 2072)
  • Penalties for negligent operations (46 U.S.C. 2302)
  • Duties related to marine casualty assistance and information (46 U.S.C. 2303)
  • Duty to provide assistance at sea (46 U.S.C. 2304)
  • Injunctions (46 U.S.C. 2305)

21A2.01
21A2.02

TOPIC - Alternative compliance—International Inland

• describes the alternative compliance provisions provided by the Rules.

21A2.01

TOPIC - Waters specified by the Secretary

• identifies the water specified by the Secretary.

21A2.01
21A2.02

TOPIC - Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone regulations

• describes and understands the Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone regulations (33 CFR Part 26).

21A2
21A2.01
21A6