If you are the stand-on vessel in a crossing, when may you act to avoid collision by your own maneuver?

• A. When it becomes apparent to you that the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action
• B. Immediately
• C. Never
• D. After you radio the other vessel

Answer: (A)

In a crossing, the stand-on vessel is expected to keep its course and speed, but not forever. You may and should take action by your own maneuver as soon as it becomes apparent that the other vessel (the give-way vessel) is not taking appropriate action to avoid a collision. This ensures you aren’t relying on the other vessel to save you when they’re not acting, and you can prevent a collision with a timely, decisive maneuver.

Acting immediately without noticing the other vessel’s failure to act isn’t appropriate, waiting to the point of radio communication isn’t required, and never taking action is incorrect.