1. NAVIGATION RULES -INLAND- “RULES OF THE ROAD”
NAVIGATION RULES “Rules of the Road”
NAVIGATION RULES -INLAND- “RULES OF THE ROAD”
There are two sets of federal rules, Inland and International. The two sets of rules are similar but not identical. The rules covered in this presentation are the Inland Rules.
Inland Rules - apply to all vessels on inland waters including the Great Lakes.
International Rules - apply to U.S. vessels outside the Demarcation Lines. These rules vary from Inland Rules and are not covered in this presentation.
Inland Navigation Rules Act of Rules 1 through 38
Developed and provided courtesy of Ohio Dept. Natural Resources

2. Disclaimer
The Rules presented in this program are an overview of summarized versions of the Inland Navigation Rules.
This program should not be considered a substitute for a complete version of the entire Inland Navigation Rules.
The summarized rules in this program could be interpreted differently than the complete rules of the Inland Navigation Rules.

3. Application of Rules (Rules 1, 4, 11, 19a)
1501: , 1501: , 1501:
Application of Rules (Rules 1, 4, 11, 19a)
These Rules (1-38) apply to all vessels upon the inland waters of the U.S. and to U.S. vessels on Canadian waters of the Great Lakes.
1-3 General Rules
4-19 Steering and Sailing Rules
4-10 apply in any condition of visibility
11-18 apply to vessels in sight of one another
19 apply to vessels in restricted visibility
Lights and Shapes
Sound and Light Signals
38 Exemptions
Primary purpose of these rules is to prevent collisions. Rules do not give “Right-Of-Way.”
These rules dictate the actions of vessels approaching each other when there is a risk of collision. Rules dictate actions of both vessels.
Rules provide a consistent traffic pattern on the water since there are no lanes, traffic lights or signs such as control traffic on highways.
Assists a vessel operator in predicting the actions of approaching vessels.

4. Responsibility (Rule 2)
Responsibility (OAC 1501: )
Responsibility (Rule 2)
Nothing in these rules shall exonerate any vessel, operator or owner from the consequences of:
neglect to comply with these rules
neglect of any required precaution
special circumstances of the case
In complying with these rules due regard shall be had to all dangers of navigation and collision and to any special circumstances, including the limits of the vessels involved, which may make a departure from these rules necessary to avoid immediate danger.
All operators of all vessels are expected to know and follow these rules.
Federal regulations require vessels 12 meters (39.4 feet) or more to carry a copy of the USCG publication “Navigation Rules, International-Inland” (COMDTINST M )
Copies available at:
Superintendent of Documents U.S. Government Printing Office Washington DC (202)

5. General Definitions (Rule 3)
Definitions (OAC 1501: )
General Definitions (Rule 3)
Vessel - every description of watercraft capable of being used for transportation on the water
Power-driven vessel - any vessel propelled by machinery.
Sailing vessel - any vessel under sail provided any propelling machinery is not being used.
Underway - not at anchor, made fast to shore or aground.
Inland Waters – navigable waters of the U.S. shoreward of the demarcation lines dividing the high seas from harbors and other inland waters.
Additional definitions will be presented as the terms appear in the rules.
Power vessel includes electric motors.
Sailing vessel becomes a power vessel when using any attached or installed engine.
Underway includes drifting.

6. Important Terms Definitions (OAC 1501:47-2-03)
These terms are defined in detail by Rules 16 and 17
Give-way - a term used for the vessel which is directed by rule to keep out of the way.
Stand-on - a term used for the vessel which is directed by rule to keep its course and speed.
May take action if apparent other vessel is not taking appropriate action
Shall take action if necessary to avoid collision
Both the Give-way and Stand-on vessels have responsibilities for avoiding a collision.
There is no absolute “right-of-way”. Even a stand-on vessel is required to take action to avoid collision if it becomes apparent the other vessel is not.
There are additional slides in this program (Rules 16 and 17) which specifically discuss the responsibility of both stand-on and give-way vessels.

7. Application of Rules (Rule 4)
Rules in this part apply in any condition of visibility.
“This part” refers to Steering and Sailing Rules 4-19

8. Proper Look-Out Required (Rule 5)
Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and conditions to make a full appraisal of the situation and of risk of collision.
In most collisions one or both operators did not see the other vessel until it was too late.
An operator of a recreational vessel may face many distractions but must not slack off on this duty to keep a proper look-out.
“Appropriate for prevailing conditions” dictates extra caution in conditions such as:
Operating into the glare of the sun
Nighttime operation
Operating during reduced visibility

9. Safe Speed (Rule 6) Safe Speed (1501:47-2-06)
Every vessel shall proceed at a safe speed so that it can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.
Continued on next slide which lists factors an operator must take into account when determining a safe speed.

10. Safe Speed (Rule 6) Safe Speed (1501:47-2-06)
In determining a safe speed the following factors shall be taken into account:
Visibility
Traffic density
Maneuverability including stopping distance and turning ability in the prevailing conditions
At night the presence of background light
Wind, sea, current, and proximity of hazards
Draft in relation to depth of water
Additional factors for vessels with radar.
As these conditions on the water change so does the speed which should be considered safe.

11. Risk of Collision (Rule 7)
Every vessel shall use all available means appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions to determine if risk of collision exists. If there is any doubt, such risk shall exist.
Proper use shall be made of radar equipment if fitted and operational, to obtain early warning of risk of collision.
Assumptions shall not be made.
If an operator considers that a risk of collision may exist, a steering rule(s) takes effect.
If an operator misjudges the risk or does not observe the risk they are still responsible.
Continued on next 3 slides.

12. Risk of Collision (Rule 7)
RELATIVE BEARING (Angle to other vessels) DOES NOT CHANGE
In determining if risk of collision exists: Such risk shall exist if the compass bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change.
This concept can be used while still at a distance from other vessels to visually estimate or judge whether there is risk.
With practice you can determine if you will pass safely behind the other vessel or be so far ahead that risk may not exist.
If there is any doubt then there is risk!
If the operator determines there is no risk they must continue to observe the other vessel as it may speed up or slow down.

13. RELATIVE BEARINGS CHANGING
Risk of Collision (1501: )
Risk of Collision
RELATIVE BEARINGS CHANGING
With practice you can determine if you will pass safely behind the other vessel or be so far ahead that risk may not exist.
If there is any doubt then there is risk!
Close quarters situation less likely. Risk of collision may not exist, but assumptions should not be made.

14. Risk of Collision (Rule 7)
Risk of Collision (OAC 1501: )
Risk of Collision (Rule 7)
In determining if risk of collision exists: Such risk may exist even when a bearing change is evident, particularly when approaching a very large vessel or a vessel at close range.
While most of these rules do not take vessel size into account, it is very advisable that all “small” vessels stay well away from large ships and barges, regardless of the situation.
Large vessels require a long distance to slow down or change course. Due to this limited maneuverability you may be required by other sections of these rules to steer clear of large vessels.

15. Action to Avoid Collision (Rule 8)
Action to Avoid Collision (OAC 1501: )
Action to Avoid Collision (Rule 8)
Action taken to avoid collision shall be positive, made in ample time and with regard to good seamanship.
Alteration of course or speed shall be large enough to be readily apparent to another vessel.
Alteration of course alone may be the most effective action to avoid a close-quarters situation if made in good time.
Many of the rules require one or both operators to take action to avoid collision.
This rule requires the action to be made early enough and obvious enough so there is not confusion between vessels.
Continued on next slide.

16. Action to Avoid Collision (Rule 8)
Action to Avoid Collision (OAC 1501: )
Action to Avoid Collision (Rule 8)
Action taken shall result in passing at a safe distance.
If necessary, a vessel shall slacken speed or take all way off by stopping or reversing means of propulsion.
Different boaters have different ideas as to what is a “safe distance”.
Be courteous and leave no doubt to other boaters that you will be well clear of them when passing.
Be aware of your wake when passing smaller vessels.

17. Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
Narrow Channels (OAC 1501: )
Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
A vessel in a narrow channel shall keep as near to the outer limit of the channel on its starboard side as is safe and practicable. 3 5 7 1
Rules for Narrow Channels supersede the rules for meeting and crossing situations in open water.
Be aware that the meeting and crossing rules for channels vary from those on open water.
Rules for Narrow Channels are covered on a series of 9 slides. 2 4 6 8

18. Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
Narrow Channels (OAC 1501: )
Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
A power vessel proceeding downbound with a following current shall have right-of-way over an upbound vessel. 3 5 7 1
CURRENT
Give-way is a term used for the vessel which is directed by rule to keep out of the way.
Stand-on is a term used for the vessel which is directed by rule to keep its course and speed.
Action required by give-way (Rule 16) and stand-on (Rule 17) vessels are covered on additional slides.
This rule is one of the very few places in the Nav Rules where the phrase “right-of-way” is used. 2 4 6 8

19. Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
Narrow Channels (OAC 1501: )
Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
A vessel less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel shall not impede a vessel that can safely navigate only within a channel. 3 5 7 1
Keep in mind that not all “channels” are as obvious as depicted in this slide.
Buoys may be so far apart that it may not be apparent that you are in a channel.
If in doubt as to whether another vessel can maneuver in the channel, then assume that it cannot and act accordingly. 2 4 6 8

20. Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
Narrow Channels (OAC 1501: )
Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
A vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede passage of any other vessel navigating within a narrow channel.
When the rules refer to “fishing” it is usually in regard to commercial vessels.
However, recreational vessels should not be involved in any activity in a channel if that activity reduces the ability to immediately get out of the way of other vessels.
Examples:
-recreational fishing lines
-water-skiing
-falling from personal watercraft

21. Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
Narrow Channels (OAC 1501: )
Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
A vessel shall not cross a narrow channel if such crossing impedes passage of a vessel that can safely navigate only within a channel. 1 3 5 7 2 4 6 8

22. Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
Narrow Channels (OAC 1501: )
An overtaking vessel shall indicate its intention by sounding the appropriate signal and take steps to permit safe passing. The overtaken vessel sounds same signal if in agreement. 3 5 7 1
TOOT
TOOT 2 4 6 8

23. Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
Narrow Channels (OAC 1501: )
Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
A vessel nearing a bend or an area where vessels may be obscured by an obstruction shall navigate with particular alertness and caution and sound appropriate signals. 5 3
TOOOOOOOOT
TOOOOOOOOT 6 4
Sound Signals are covered in greater detail in another portion of this program. 7 1 2 8

24. Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
Narrow Channels (OAC 1501: )
Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
Every vessel shall avoid anchoring in a narrow channel. 3 5 7 1
Do not anchor in a channel unless in distress and no other options exist.
If you must anchor in a channel, take every precaution to give early warning to large vessels using the channel.
Especially avoid anchoring in areas used by ships and barges on coastal waters, Great Lakes or rivers. 2 4 6 8

25. Narrow Channels (Rule 9)
Narrow Channels (OAC 1501: )
Vessels leaving a dock, slip, tie-up or mooring shall yield the right-of-way to all vessels approaching.
GIVE-WAY
MOORING BUOY
STAND-ON
GIVE-WAY

26. Application of Rules (Rule 11)
Rules in this part apply to vessels in sight of one another.
“This part” refers to Steering and Sailing Rules 11-18

27. Sailing Vessels (Rule 12)
Sailing Vessels (OAC 1501: )
When two sailing vessels are approaching, one of them shall keep out of the way as follows:
When each has the wind on a different side, the vessel with the wind on the port side shall keep out of the way.
WIND DIRECTION
PORT
STARBOARD
There are two basic rules that apply when sailboats approach on collision course if neither is overtaking the other.
Both require knowledge of wind direction.
1. Opposite sides of vessels facing upwind
2. Same side of vessels facing upwind
Neither of these rules apply if one sailing vessel is overtaking another.
Other sections of the Nav rules which refer to head-on and crossing situations apply only to power vessels in those situations and do not apply between sailing vessels.
GIVE-WAY
STAND-ON

28. Sailing Vessels (Rule 12)
Sailing Vessels (OAC 1501: )
When both have the wind on the same side, the vessel which is to windward (upwind) shall keep out of the way of the vessel which is to leeward (downwind).
WIND DIRECTION
PORT
GIVE-WAY
WINDWARD
LEEWARD
PORT
STAND-ON

29. Sailing Vessels (Rule 12)
Sailing Vessels (OAC 1501: )
Sailing Vessels (Rule 12)
When both have the wind on the same side, the vessel which is to windward (upwind) shall keep out of the way of the vessel which is to leeward (downwind).
WIND DIRECTION
STARBOARD
GIVE-WAY
WINDWARD
LEEWARD
STARBOARD
STAND-ON

30. Sailing Vessels (Rule 12)
Sailing Vessels (OAC 1501: )
Sailing Vessels (Rule 12)
If a vessel with the wind on port side sees a vessel to windward and cannot determine if the other vessel has the wind on the port or starboard, it shall keep out of the way.
WIND DIRECTION ?
PORT
LINE OF SIGHT: Difficult to determine which side sail is on
GIVE-WAY

31. Sailing Vessels (Rule 12)
Sailing Vessels (OAC 1501: )
Sailing Vessels (Rule 12)
The windward side is opposite to the side the mainsail is carried on.
WIND DIRECTION
PORT
STARBOARD
WINDWARD
LEEWARD
LEEWARD
WINDWARD
MAINSAIL
HEADSAIL
MAINSAIL

32. Overtaking (Rule 13) Overtaking (OAC 1501:47-2-13)
Any vessel overtaking any other shall keep out of the way of the vessel being overtaken.
STAND-ON
This rule applies to all vessels. Even to a hand-powered or sailing vessel if it is overtaking a power vessel.
Give-way is a term used for the vessel which is directed by rule to keep out of the way.
Stand-on is a term used for the vessel which is directed by rule to keep its course and speed.
Action required by give-way (Rule 16) and stand-on (Rule 17) vessels are covered on additional slides.
GIVE-WAY

33. Overtaking (Rule 13) Overtaking (OAC 1501:47-2-13)
A vessel shall be overtaking when coming up from a direction more than 22½ degrees abaft (behind) another vessels beam;
CROSSING ZONE
OVERTAKING ZONE 135º
STAND-ON
HEAD-ON
Overtaking is a very large area behind another vessel.
The dividing line between overtaking and crossing is determined easily at night if the overtaken vessel is properly displaying lights.
During the day the line is not so distinct.
CROSSING ZONE
in a position that at night it would only see the sternlight but neither of the sidelights of that vessel.

34. OVERTAKING or CROSSING?
Overtaking (OAC 1501: )
Overtaking (Rule 13)
When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether it is overtaking, it shall assume it is and act accordingly.
OVERTAKING or CROSSING?
The dividing line between overtaking and crossing is determined easily at night if the vessel is properly displaying lights.
During the day the line is not so distinct.
If in doubt, the rules say you are overtaking. ? ?

35. Overtaking (Rule 13) ? ? DANGER ZONE OVERTAKING CROSSING
Overtaking (OAC 1501: )
Overtaking (Rule 13)
When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether it is overtaking, it shall assume it is and act accordingly.
DANGER ZONE
OVERTAKING
CROSSING ? ?

36. Head-On Situation (Rule 14)
Head-On Situation (OAC 1501: )
Head-On Situation (Rule 14)
Unless otherwise agreed, when two power-driven vessels are meeting on reciprocal courses each shall alter course to starboard so that each shall pass on the port side of the other.
PORT
STARBOARD
STARBOARD
PORT
GIVE-WAY
GIVE-WAY
Applies when two power-driven vessels are meeting.

37. Head-On Situation (Rule 14)
Head-On Situation (OAC 1501: )
Head-On Situation (Rule 14)
Such a situation shall exist when a vessel sees the other ahead or nearly ahead and by night it could see both sidelights and by day observes the corresponding aspect.
When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether such a situation exists it shall assume that it does exist and act accordingly.

38. Crossing Situation (Rule 15)
Crossing Situation (OAC 1501: )
Crossing Situation (Rule 15)
When two power-driven vessels are crossing, the vessel which has the other on its starboard side shall keep out of the way and shall avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel.
STAND-ON
GIVE-WAY
Applies when two power-driven vessels are crossing.
ALTER COURSE, SLOW or STOP

39. DANGER ZONE Danger Zone 112.5º STAND-ON
Observes green sidelight of approaching vessel
112.5º
Danger Zone is a term used to describe an area of degrees measured from dead ahead to 2 points (22.5 degrees) abaft (behind) the starboard beam.
If lights are properly displayed at night, and you see another vessel’s green sidelight, then you are in their Danger Zone.
GIVE-WAY
Observes red sidelight of vessel in danger zone

40. Crossing Situation (Rule 15)
Crossing Situation (OAC 1501: )
Crossing Situation (Rule 15)
A vessel crossing a river shall keep out of the way of a power-driven vessel ascending or descending.
RIVER CURRENT
STAND-ON
STAND-ON
GIVE-WAY

41. Action by Give-Way Vessel (Rule 16)
Action by Give-Way Vessel (OAC 1501: )
Action by Give-Way Vessel (Rule 16)
Every vessel which is directed to keep out of the way of another vessel shall, so far as possible, take early and substantial action to keep well clear.
Give-way is a term used for the vessel which is directed by rule to keep out of the way.
Rule requires “early and substantial action” so the other vessel has less doubt and/or confusion about the action being taken.

42. Action by Stand-On Vessel (Rule 17)
Action by Stand-On Vessel (OAC 1501: )
Action by Stand-On Vessel (Rule 17)
Where one of two vessels is to keep out of the way, the other shall keep its course and speed.
The stand-on vessel may take action as soon as it becomes apparent the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action.
A power-driven vessel which takes action with another power vessel shall not alter course to port for a vessel on its own port side.
When the stand-on vessel finds itself so close that collision cannot be avoided by the give-way vessel alone, it shall take action to avoid collision.
Stand-on is a term used for the vessel which is directed by rule to keep its course and speed.
Must keep course and speed to be predictable to the Give-way vessel.
Note that there is no absolute “right-of-way”. When the give-way vessel does not or can not take sufficient action the stand-on vessel must take action.
This section of the rule factors in the other boaters inattention, inability or ignorance and the possibility of any problems aboard the other vessel.

43. Definitions (Rule 3) Definitions (OAC 1501:47-2-17)
Vessel not under command - a vessel which through some exceptional circumstance is unable to maneuver as required by these rules and is therefore unable to keep out of the way.
Vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver - a vessel by nature of its work is restricted in its ability to maneuver as required by these rules and therefore unable to keep out of the way.
Vessel engaged in fishing - any vessel fishing with nets, lines, trawls, etc. which restricts maneuverability but does not include vessels engaged in recreational fishing.

44. Responsibilities Between Vessels (Rule 18)
Responsibilities Between Vessels (OAC 1501: )
Responsibilities Between Vessels (Rule 18)
Except where Rules 9 (Narrow Channels), 10 (Traffic Schemes) and 13 (Overtaking) otherwise require:
A power vessel underway shall keep out of the way of :
a vessel not under command
a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver
a vessel engaged in fishing (commercial vessel)
a sailing vessel
These rules to not directly state that vessel size is a factor (ships vs recreational) nor does this section specifically state where manually propelled vessels are included.
In most situations, the amount of time it will require a ship or a manually propelled vessel to maneuver out of the way will cause a close-quarters situation. Therefore, in most situations a recreational vessel should stay clear of ships and recreational power and sailing vessels should avoid manually propelled vessels.

45. Responsibilities Between Vessels (Rule 18)
Responsibilities Between Vessels (OAC 1501: )
Responsibilities Between Vessels (Rule 18)
A sailing vessel shall keep out of the way of :
a vessel not under command
a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver
a vessel engaged in fishing (commercial)
A vessel engaged in fishing (commercial) shall keep out of the way of :

46. Conduct in Restricted Visibility (Rule 19)
Conduct in Restricted Visibility (OAC 1501: )
Conduct in Restricted Visibility (Rule 19)
This rule applies to vessels not in sight of one another when in or near an area of restricted visibility.
Every vessel shall proceed at a safe speed adapted to the conditions. Power vessels shall have engines ready for immediate maneuver.
Every vessel shall have due regard to the prevailing conditions when complying with navigation rules.
“Restricted Visibility” means any condition in which visibility is restricted by fog, mist, falling snow, heavy rainstorms, sandstorms, or any similar causes.
Continued on next slide.

47. Conduct in Restricted Visibility (Rule 19)
Conduct in Restricted Visibility (OAC 1501: )
Conduct in Restricted Visibility (Rule 19)
A vessel which detects another vessel by radar shall determine if risk of collision exists. If so, it shall take avoiding action.
Every vessel which hears the fog signal of another shall reduce speed to the minimum at which it can be kept on course. It shall if necessary take all way off and, in any event, navigate with extreme caution.