Quote:
Originally Posted by The Phantom Gourmand
General rule is that I never ever have the right of way. I will always give way. Gas is expensive? Really? Where are you going on the lake? More than likely just drilling holes in the water. So what if you get to your destination 2 or 3 minutes later, that just means you get to spend more time on the boat. I know this may not apply to every situation, but is sure applies to most.
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Just a word of caution. In the eyes of the law the stand-on vessel is obligated to maintain speed and direction unless the give-way vessel does not take action. It's not a matter of ego, fuel, or being in a hurry. This is most likely to avoid confusion. Imagine two boats meeting on the water at night and both are trying to turn behind the other. In a collision the operator of the stand-on vessel could be liable as well.
Below is the definition from the NH boating course:
Encountering Other Vessels
There are rules that every operator must follow when encountering other vessels.
Two terms help explain these rules:
Give-way vessel: The vessel that is required to take early and substantial action to keep well away from other vessels by stopping, slowing down, or changing course. Avoid crossing in front of other vessels. Any change of course and/or speed should be large enough to be readily apparent to another vessel. (A series of small changes should be avoided.)
Stand-on vessel: The vessel that must maintain its course and speed unless it becomes apparent that the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action. If you must take action, do not turn toward the give-way vessel or cross in front of it.