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Originally Posted by VarneyPoint
Just want to ask a simple question to try to get a sampling of answers from my fellow boaters. What infraction bothers you more, violating the 150' rule or violating the right of way (right of passage) rule? ... Thoughts?
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There is actually no "Right of way" on the water. That term is frequently used though in explaining the responsibilies between "Stand-On" or "Privileged" vs. "Give-Way" or "Burdenned" vessels.
There is a specific rule that may give the impression it is meant to protect fools from their own ignorance. It is known as the "General Prudence Rule" (Article 27 RoR). I'm working from an older copy of 'Chapman's" so it may have been re-written slightly in the most recent USCG publications but here's what I have...
"In obeying and construing the Rules of the Road, due regard must be given to all dangers of navigation and colision, and to any special circumstance that may render a departure from the Rules neccessary to avoid any immediate danger."
This is the clause that can give you partial liability if someone nails you while violating every other part of the Rules.
Now that I've blown some wind... To answer your question directly, 'right of way' errors are the ones I find most annoying too. Especially frustrating are the boats that zig when you zag to avoid them and then at the last minute zag back forcing you to zig.