Page 79 - Collision Avoidance Rules Guide

recognised at sufficient distance for early action to be taken and
restricted visibility may make it difficult to take early action in accord-
ance with the relevant paragraphs of Rules 9 and 10.
Rule 8(f)(ii) establishes clearly that a vessel required not to
impede does not lose that obligation if approaching the other vessel
so as to involve risk of collision. Although the other vessel may
become the give-way vessel when risk of collision develops the ves-
sel required not to impede is not relieved from the requirement to
allow sufficient sea room for the safe passage of the other vessel
because of the application of Rule 17(a)(i). Early action in compli-
ance with Rule 8(f) is compatible with Rule 17(a)(ii), which permits
action by the stand-on vessel (see pages 106-8).
A vessel taking action so as to avoid impeding the passage of
another vessel must have full regard to the action which may be
required by the Steering and Sailing Rules. This is a requirement of
Rule 8(f)(ii) to take account of the possibility of both vessels taking
conflicting action when there is risk of collision. However, as it is not
possible to establish the precise distance apart at which risk of colli-
sion begins to apply, a vessel taking early action not to impede should
also have full regard to the action which may be taken by the other
vessel. Rules 14, 15 and 17(c) indicate the form of action to be taken.
Rule 8(f)(iii) relates to the obligations of a vessel the passage of
which is not to be impeded. Such a vessel is not relieved of her obli-
gation to comply with the Steering and Sailing Rules when there is risk
of collision. When vessels are in sight of one another and risk of colli-
sion exists, a power-driven vessel may be required to keep out of the
way of the vessel required not to impede in accordance with Rules 13,
14, 15 and 18(a). In restricted visibility such a vessel is not relieved of
her obligation to take avoiding action in ample time when a close quar-
ters situation is developing. When there is an obligation not to impede
in restricted visibility Rule 19 applies fully, together with Rule 8(f).

RULE 9
Narrow Channels
(a) A vessel proceeding along the course of a narrow channel or
fairway shall keep as near to the outer limit of the channel
or fairway which lies on her starboard side as is safe and
practicable.
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