A power-driven vessel must keep out of the way of which types of vessels?

A power-driven vessel must keep out of the way of which types of vessels?

• A. Not under command, and restricted in their ability to maneuver
• B. Vessels not under command, restricted in their ability to maneuver, and engaged in fishing
• C. Sailing vessels and fishing boats
• D. Vessels in distress

Answer: (B)

The key idea is give-way responsibility: a power‑driven vessel must take early and substantial action to avoid vessels that may not be able to maneuver to avoid you. Not under command describes a vessel that cannot be steered or controlled to avoid you. A vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver is limited by the nature of its work (for example, operations that prevent swerving or rapid changes of course). A vessel engaged in fishing is often hindered by gear, nets, and lines, which can restrict its ability to maneuver quickly. Because these vessels have limited or impeded maneuverability, other vessels – including power‑driven ones – are responsible for keeping clear to prevent a collision. While sailing vessels and vessels in distress have their own considerations under the rules, the combination of these three categories specifically captures the situations where a power‑driven vessel must keep out of the way.

The key idea is give-way responsibility: a power‑driven vessel must take early and substantial action to avoid vessels that may not be able to maneuver to avoid you. Not under command describes a vessel that cannot be steered or controlled to avoid you. A vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver is limited by the nature of its work (for example, operations that prevent swerving or rapid changes of course). A vessel engaged in fishing is often hindered by gear, nets, and lines, which can restrict its ability to maneuver quickly. Because these vessels have limited or impeded maneuverability, other vessels – including power‑driven ones – are responsible for keeping clear to prevent a collision. While sailing vessels and vessels in distress have their own considerations under the rules, the combination of these three categories specifically captures the situations where a power‑driven vessel must keep out of the way.