Loading (50 kb)...'

National
United States
33 USC CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES

-CITE-
33 USC CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES 01/19/04

-EXPCITE-
TITLE 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES

-HEAD-
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES


-MISC1-
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES

PART A - GENERAL
Sec.
2001. Application (Rule 1).
(a) United States inland waters and Canadian waters
of the Great Lakes.
(b) International Regulations.
(c) Special rules.
(d) Vessel traffic service regulations.
(e) Alternative compliance.
(f) Acceptance of certificates of alternative
compliance from contracting parties to
International Regulations.
2002. Responsibility (Rule 2).
(a) Exoneration.
(b) Departure from rules when necessary to avoid
immediate danger.
2003. Definitions (Rule 3).

PART B - STEERING AND SAILING RULES

SUBPART I - CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN ANY CONDITION OF VISIBILITY
2004. Application (Rule 4).
2005. Look-out (Rule 5).
2006. Safe speed (Rule 6).
2007. Risk of collision (Rule 7).
(a) Determination if risk exists.
(b) Radar.
(c) Scanty information.
(d) Considerations taken into account in
determining if risk exists.
2008. Action to avoid collision (Rule 8).
(a) General characteristics of action taken to
avoid collision.
(b) Readily apparent alterations in course or
speed.
(c) Alteration of course to avoid close-quarters
situation.
(d) Action to result in passing at safe distance.
(e) Slackening of vessel speed; stopping or
reversing means of propulsion.
(f) Early action to allow room for safe passage.
2009. Narrow channels (Rule 9).
(a) Keeping near to outer limit of channel or
fairway which lies on vessel's starboard side;
exception.
(b) Vessels of less than 20 meters in length;
sailing vessels.
(c) Vessels engaged in fishing.
(d) Crossing narrow channels or fairways.
(e) Overtaking vessels.
(f) Areas of obscured visibility due to intervening
obstructions.
(g) Avoidance of anchoring in narrow channels.
2010. Traffic separation schemes (Rule 10).
(a) Obligations under other Rules unaffected.
(b) Duties for vessel using scheme.
(c) Crossing traffic lanes.
(d) Use of inshore traffic lane.
(e) Entering separation zone or crossing separation
line.
(f) Caution in areas near termination of scheme.
(g) Anchoring.
(h) Avoidance of scheme.
(i) Fishing vessels.
(j) Power-driven vessels.
(k) Exemption; maintenance of safety of navigation.
(l) Exemption; laying, servicing, or picking up
submarine cable.

SUBPART II - CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN SIGHT OF ONE ANOTHER
2011. Application (Rule 11).
2012. Sailing vessels (Rule 12).
(a) Keeping out of the way.
(b) Windward side.
2013. Overtaking (Rule 13).
(a) Overtaking vessel to keep out of the overtaken
vessel's way.
(b) Overtaking vessel defined.
(c) Assumption that vessel is overtaking another in
cases of doubt.
(d) Overtaking vessel to become crossing vessel
only when finally past and clear.
2014. Head-on situation (Rule 14).
(a) Course alterations to starboard; port side
passage.
(b) Existence of head-on situation.
(c) Assumption that head-on situation exists in
cases of doubt.
(d) Vessel operating on Great Lakes, Western
Rivers, or other specified waters, and
proceeding downbound with following current.
2015. Crossing situation (Rule 15).
(a) Vessel which must keep out of the other
vessel's way.
(b) Vessels crossing river.
2016. Action by give-way vessel (Rule 16).
2017. Action by stand-on vessel (Rule 17).
(a) Stand-on vessel to keep course and speed;
action allowed when give-way vessel fails to
take appropriate action.
(b) Action by stand-on vessel allowed when action
by give-way vessel alone cannot avoid
collision.
(c) Crossing situations.
(d) Give-way vessel not relieved of obligation to
keep out of the way.
2018. Responsibilities between vessels (Rule 18).
(a) Power-driven vessels underway.
(b) Sailing vessels underway.
(c) Vessels engaged in fishing when underway.
(d) Seaplanes on the water.

SUBPART III - CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN RESTRICTED VISIBILITY
2019. Conduct of vessels in restricted visibility (Rule 19).
(a) Vessels to which rule applies.
(b) Safe speed; engines ready for immediate
maneuver.
(c) Due regard to prevailing circumstances and
conditions.
(d) Detection of vessel by radar alone.
(e) Reduction of speed to minimum.

PART C - LIGHTS AND SHAPES
2020. Application (Rule 20).
(a) Compliance in all weathers.
(b) Rules concerning lights complied with from
sunset to sunrise; other lights.
(c) Lights during daylight hours in restricted
visibility; other circumstances.
(d) Rules concerning shapes; compliance by day.
(e) Annex.
2021. Definitions (Rule 21).
2022. Visibility of lights (Rule 22).
(a) Vessels of 50 meters or more in length.
(b) Vessels of 12 meters or more but less than 50
meters in length.
(c) Vessels of less than 12 meters in length.
(d) Inconspicuous, partly submerged vessels or
objects being towed.
2023. Power-driven vessels underway (Rule 23).
(a) Lights exhibited by power-driven vessels
underway.
(b) Air-cushion vessels.
(c) Alternative lights for power-driven vessels of
less than 12 meters in length.
(d) Power-driven vessels when operating on Great
Lakes.
2024. Towing and pushing (Rule 24).
(a) Power-driven vessels when towing astern.
(b) Pushing vessel and pushed vessel rigidly
connected in composite unit.
(c) Power-driven vessel when pushing ahead or
towing alongside.
(d) Compliance with other requirements.
(e) Vessels being towed.
(f) Vessels being towed alongside or pushed in a
group.
(g) Inconspicuous, partly submerged vessel or
object being towed.
(h) Alternative lighting of vessel or object being
towed.
(i) Western Rivers or other specified waters;
exception.
(j) Towing another vessel in distress or otherwise
in need of assistance.
2025. Sailing vessels underway and vessels under oars (Rule
25).
(a) Sailing vessels underway.
(b) Sailing vessels of less than 20 meters in
length.
(c) Additional lights.
(d) Sailing vessels of less than 7 meters in
length; vessels under oars.
(e) Vessels proceeding under sail.
2026. Fishing vessels (Rule 26).
(a) Exhibition of only prescribed lights and
shapes.
(b) Vessels engaged in trawling.
(c) Vessels engaged in fishing other than trawling.
(d) Vessels engaged in fishing in close proximity
to other vessels engaged in fishing.
(e) Vessels when not engaged in fishing.
2027. Vessels not under command or restricted in their
ability to maneuver (Rule 27).
(a) Vessels not under command.
(b) Vessels restricted in their ability to
maneuver.
(c) Vessels engaged in towing operations.
(d) Vessels engaged in dredging or underwater
operations.
(e) Vessels engaged in diving operations.
(f) Vessels engaged in mineclearance operations.
(g) Vessels of less than 12 meters in length.
(h) Signals of vessels in distress and requiring
assistance.
2028. [Reserved] (Rule 28).
2029. Pilot vessels (Rule 29).
(a) Vessels engaged on pilotage duty.
(b) Vessels when not engaged on pilotage duty.
2030. Anchored vessels and vessels aground (Rule 30).
(a) Vessels at anchor.
(b) Vessels of less than 50 meters in length;
alternative light.
(c) Illumination of decks.
(d) Vessels aground.
(e) Vessels of less than 7 meters in length when at
anchor.
(f) Vessels of less than 12 meters in length when
aground.
(g) Vessels of less than 20 meters in length while
at anchor in special anchorage.
2031. Seaplanes (Rule 31).

PART D - SOUND AND LIGHT SIGNALS
2032. Definitions (Rule 32).
2033. Equipment for sound signals (Rule 33).
(a) Vessels of 12 meters or more in length.
(b) Vessels of less than 12 meters in length.
2034. Maneuvering and warning signals (Rule 34).
(a) Whistle signals.
(b) Light signals.
(c) Overtaking situations.
(d) Doubts or failure to understand signals.
(e) Vessels in areas of obscured visibility due to
intervening obstructions.
(f) Use of one whistle only on a vessel.
(g) Power-driven vessels leaving dock or berth.
(h) Agreement between vessels using radiotelephone.
2035. Sound signals in restricted visibility (Rule 35).
(a) Power-driven vessels making way through the
water.
(b) Power-driven vessels underway but stopped and
making no way through the water.
(c) Vessels not under command; vessels restricted
in ability to maneuver; sailing vessels;
vessels engaged in fishing; vessels engaged in
towing or pushing.
(d) Vessels towed.
(e) Pushing and pushed vessels connected in
composite unit.
(f) Vessels at anchor.
(g) Vessels aground.
(h) Vessels of less than 12 meters in length.
(i) Pilot vessels.
(j) Vessels anchored in special anchorage areas.
2036. Signals to attract attention (Rule 36).
2037. Distress signals (Rule 37).

PART E - EXEMPTIONS
2038. Exemptions (Rule 38).

SUBCHAPTER II - MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
2071. Implementation and interpretation; regulations;
technical annexes to Inland Navigational Rules.
2072. Violations of Inland Navigational Rules.
(a) Liability of operator for civil penalty.
(b) Liability of vessel for civil penalty; seizure
of vessel.
(c) Assessment of civil penalty by Secretary;
collection.
(d) Withholding of clearance.
2073. Navigation Safety Advisory Council.
(a) Establishment; membership; Council panels;
publication in Federal Register.
(b) Functions and purpose of Council.
(c) Executive secretary; staff; travel expenses and
status of members.
(d) Termination of Council.

-End-


-CITE-
33 USC SUBCHAPTER I - RULES 01/19/04

-EXPCITE-
TITLE 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES

-HEAD-
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES

-End-


-CITE-
33 USC Part A - General 01/19/04

-EXPCITE-
TITLE 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES
Part A - General

-HEAD-
PART A - GENERAL

-End-



-CITE-
33 USC Sec. 2001 01/19/04

-EXPCITE-
TITLE 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES
Part A - General

-HEAD-
Sec. 2001. Application (Rule 1)

-STATUTE-
(a) United States inland waters and Canadian waters of the Great
Lakes
These Rules apply to all vessels upon the inland waters of the
United States, and to vessels of the United States on the Canadian
waters of the Great Lakes to the extent that there is no conflict
with Canadian law.
(b) International Regulations
(i) These Rules constitute special rules made by an appropriate
authority within the meaning of Rule 1(b) of the International
Regulations.
(ii) All vessels complying with the construction and equipment
requirements of the International Regulations are considered to be
in compliance with these Rules.
(c) Special rules
Nothing in these Rules shall interfere with the operation of any
special rules made by the Secretary of the Navy with respect to
additional station or signal lights and shapes or whistle signals
for ships of war and vessels proceeding under convoy, or by the
Secretary with respect to additional station or signal lights and
shapes for fishing vessels engaged in fishing as a fleet. These
additional station or signal lights and shapes or whistle signals
shall, so far as possible, be such that they cannot be mistaken for
any light, shape, or signal authorized elsewhere under these Rules.
Notice of such special rules shall be published in the Federal
Register and, after the effective date specified in such notice,
they shall have effect as if they were a part of these Rules.
(d) Vessel traffic service regulations
Traffic separation schemes may be established for the purpose of
these Rules. Vessel traffic service regulations may be in effect in
certain areas.
(e) Alternative compliance
Whenever the Secretary determines that a vessel or class of
vessels of special construction or purpose cannot comply fully with
the provisions of any of these Rules with respect to the number,
position, range, or arc of visibility of lights or shapes, as well
as to the disposition and characteristics of sound-signaling
appliances, the vessel shall comply with such other provisions in
regard to the number, position, range, or arc of visibility of
lights or shapes, as well as to the disposition and characteristics
of sound-signaling appliances, as the Secretary shall have
determined to be the closest possible compliance with these Rules.
The Secretary may issue a certificate of alternative compliance for
a vessel or class of vessels specifying the closest possible
compliance with these Rules. The Secretary of the Navy shall make
these determinations and issue certificates of alternative
compliance for vessels of the Navy.
(f) Acceptance of certificates of alternative compliance from
contracting parties to International Regulations
The Secretary may accept a certificate of alternative compliance
issued by a contracting party to the International Regulations if
he determines that the alternative compliance standards of the
contracting party are substantially the same as those of the United
States.

-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 96-591, Sec. 2, Dec. 24, 1980, 94 Stat. 3415; Pub. L.
102-241, Sec. 21(1), Dec. 19, 1991, 105 Stat. 2217; Pub. L.
102-587, title V, Sec. 5206[(1)], Nov. 4, 1992, 106 Stat. 5074.)

-REFTEXT-
REFERENCES IN TEXT
These Rules, referred to in pars. (a), (b), (c), and (e), are the
Inland Navigational Rules which are classified to this subchapter.
The International Regulations, referred to in pars. (b) and (f),
are the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea,
1972. See International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at
Sea, 1972, set out as a note under section 1602 of this title.

-COD-
CODIFICATION
Section was enacted as part of section 2 of Pub. L. 96-591 which
enacted the Inland Navigational Rules which comprise this
subchapter.


-MISC1-
AMENDMENTS
1992 - Par. (d). Pub. L. 102-587 amended par. (d) generally.
Prior to amendment, par. (d) read as follows: "Vessel traffic
service regulations may be in effect in certain areas."
1991 - Par. (e). Pub. L. 102-241 struck out "without interfering
with the special function of the vessel," before "the vessel shall
comply".

EFFECTIVE DATE
Section 7 of Pub. L. 96-591 provided that: "Sections 2, 4, 6(1),
and 8(a) [enacting this section and sections 2002 to 2038 and 2072
of this title, amending section 1604 of this title, and repealing
sections 154 to 159, 171 to 183, 191, 192, 201 to 213, 221, 222,
231, 232, 301 to 303, 311 to 323, 331, 341-356, 360, and 360a of
this title and sections 526b, 526c, and 526d of former Title 46,
Shipping] are effective 12 months after the date of enactment of
this Act [Dec. 24, 1980], except that on the Great Lakes, the
effective date of sections 2 and 4 [enacting this section and
sections 2002 to 2038 and 2072 of this title] will be established
by the Secretary. [The effective date on the Great Lakes was
established as Mar. 1, 1983. See 47 F.R. 15135, Apr. 8, 1982.]
Section 5 [enacting section 2073 of this title] is effective on
October 1, 1981."

SHORT TITLE
Section 1 of Pub. L. 96-591 provided: "That this Act [enacting
this chapter, amending sections 151, 1604, 1605, and 1608 of this
title, repealing sections 154 to 159, 171 to 183, 191, 192, 201 to
213, 221, 222, 231, 232, 241 to 244, 251 to 262, 271, 272, 281 to
295, 301 to 303, 311 to 323, 331, 341 to 356, 360, and 360a of this
title and sections 526b, 526c, and 526d of former Title 46,
Shipping, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this
section] may be cited as the 'Inland Navigational Rules Act of
1980'."

REPEAL OF PREDECESSOR PROVISIONS; SAVINGS PROVISIONS
Section 8(a) of Pub. L. 96-591 provided in part that: "The laws
specified in the following schedules are repealed. Any prior rights
or liabilities existing under these laws are not affected by their
repeal." [The schedules repealed sections 154 to 159, 171 to 183,
191, 192, 201 to 213, 221, 222, 231, 232, 301 to 303, 311 to 323,
331, 341 to 356, 360, and 360a of this title and sections 526b,
526c, and 526d of former Title 46, Shipping.]
Section 8(b) of Pub. L. 96-591 provided in part that: "The
following laws [sections 241 to 244, 251 to 262, 271, 272, and 281
to 295 of this title] are repealed when the Secretary establishes
an effective date under section 7 [set out as a note above]."

-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in section 2072 of this title.

-End-



-CITE-
33 USC Sec. 2002 01/19/04

-EXPCITE-
TITLE 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES
Part A - General

-HEAD-
Sec. 2002. Responsibility (Rule 2)

-STATUTE-
(a) Exoneration
Nothing in these Rules shall exonerate any vessel, or the owner,
master, or crew thereof, from the consequences of any neglect to
comply with these Rules or of the neglect of any precaution which
may be required by the ordinary practice of seamen, or by the
special circumstances of the case.
(b) Departure from rules when necessary to avoid immediate danger
In construing and complying with these Rules due regard shall be
had to all dangers of navigation and collision and to any special
circumstances, including the limitations of the vessels involved,
which may make a departure from these Rules necessary to avoid
immediate danger.

-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 96-591, Sec. 2, Dec. 24, 1980, 94 Stat. 3416.)

-REFTEXT-
REFERENCES IN TEXT
These Rules, referred to in text, are the Inland Navigational
Rules which are classified to this subchapter.

-COD-
CODIFICATION
Section was enacted as part of section 2 of Pub. L. 96-591 which
enacted the Inland Navigational Rules which comprise this
subchapter.

-End-



-CITE-
33 USC Sec. 2003 01/19/04

-EXPCITE-
TITLE 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES
Part A - General

-HEAD-
Sec. 2003. Definitions (Rule 3)

-STATUTE-
For the purpose of these Rules and this chapter, except where the
context otherwise requires:
(a) The word "vessel" includes every description of water craft,
including nondisplacement craft and seaplanes, used or capable of
being used as a means of transportation on water;
(b) The term "power-driven vessel" means any vessel propelled by
machinery;
(c) The term "sailing vessel" means any vessel under sail
provided that propelling machinery, if fitted, is not being used;
(d) The term "vessel engaged in fishing" means any vessel fishing
with nets, lines, trawls, or other fishing apparatus which
restricts maneuverability, but does not include a vessel fishing
with trolling lines or other fishing apparatus which do not
restrict maneuverability;
(e) The word "seaplane" includes any aircraft designed to
maneuver on the water;
(f) The term "vessel not under command" means 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 of another vessel;
(g) The term "vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver" means
a vessel which from the nature of her work is restricted in her
ability to maneuver as required by these Rules and is therefore
unable to keep out of the way of another vessel; vessels restricted
in their ability to maneuver include, but are not limited to:
(i) a vessel engaged in laying, servicing, or picking up a
navigation mark, submarine cable, or pipeline;
(ii) a vessel engaged in dredging, surveying, or underwater
operations;
(iii) a vessel engaged in replenishment or transferring
persons, provisions, or cargo while underway;
(iv) a vessel engaged in the launching or recovery of aircraft;
(v) a vessel engaged in mineclearance operations; and
(vi) a vessel engaged in a towing operation such as severely
restricts the towing vessel and her tow in their ability to
deviate from their course.

(h) The word "underway" means that a vessel is not at anchor, or
made fast to the shore, or aground;
(i) The words "length" and "breadth" of a vessel mean her length
overall and greatest breadth;
(j) Vessels shall be deemed to be in sight of one another only
when one can be observed visually from the other;
(k) The term "restricted visibility" means any condition in which
visibility is restricted by fog, mist, falling snow, heavy
rainstorms, sandstorms, or any other similar causes;
(l) "Western Rivers" means the Mississippi River, its
tributaries, South Pass, and Southwest Pass, to the navigational
demarcation lines dividing the high seas from harbors, rivers, and
other inland waters of the United States, and the Port Allen-Morgan
City Alternate Route, and that part of the Atchafalaya River above
its junction with the Port Allen-Morgan City Alternate Route
including the Old River and the Red River;
(m) "Great Lakes" means the Great Lakes and their connecting and
tributary waters including the Calumet River as far as the Thomas
J. O'Brien Lock and Controlling Works (between mile 326 and 327),
the Chicago River as far as the east side of the Ashland Avenue
Bridge (between mile 321 and 322), and the Saint Lawrence River as
far east as the lower exit of Saint Lambert Lock;
(n) "Secretary" means the Secretary of the department in which
the Coast Guard is operating;
(o) "Inland Waters" means the navigable waters of the United
States shoreward of the navigational demarcation lines dividing the
high seas from harbors, rivers, and other inland waters of the
United States and the waters of the Great Lakes on the United
States side of the International Boundary;
(p) "Inland Rules" or "Rules" mean the Inland Navigational Rules
and the annexes thereto, which govern the conduct of vessels and
specify the lights, shapes, and sound signals that apply on inland
waters; and
(q) "International Regulations" means the International
Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, including
annexes currently in force for the United States.

-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 96-591, Sec. 2, Dec. 24, 1980, 94 Stat. 3416; Pub. L.
100-448, Sec. 14(1), Sept. 28, 1988, 102 Stat. 1844.)

-REFTEXT-
REFERENCES IN TEXT
These Rules and Inland Rules, referred to in text, mean the
Inland Navigational Rules which are classified to this subchapter.
This chapter, referred to in text, was in the original "this
Act", meaning Pub. L. 96-591, Dec. 24, 1980, 94 Stat. 3415, as
amended, known as the Inland Navigational Rules Act of 1980, which
enacted this chapter, amended sections 151, 1604, 1605, and 1608 of
this title, repealed sections 154 to 159, 171 to 183, 191, 192, 201
to 213, 221, 222, 232, 241 to 244, 251 to 262, 271, 272, 281 to
295, 301 to 303, 311 to 323, 331, 341 to 356, 360, and 360a of this
title and sections 526b, 526c, and 526d of former Title 46,
Shipping, and enacted provisions set out as notes under section
2001 of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the
Code see Short Title note set out under section 2001 of this title
and Tables.
For the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at
Sea, 1972, referred to in par. (q), see International Regulations
for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, set out as a note under
section 1602 of this title.

-COD-
CODIFICATION
Section was enacted as part of section 2 of Pub. L. 96-591 which
enacted the Inland Navigational Rules which comprise this
subchapter.


-MISC1-
AMENDMENTS
1988 - Par. (g)(v). Pub. L. 100-448 substituted "mineclearance"
for "minesweeping".


-TRANS-
TRANSFER OF FUNCTIONS
For transfer of authorities, functions, personnel, and assets of
the Coast Guard, including the authorities and functions of the
Secretary of Transportation relating thereto, to the Department of
Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see
sections 468(b), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic
Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization
Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under
section 542 of Title 6.

-End-


-CITE-
33 USC Part B - Steering and Sailing Rules 01/19/04

-EXPCITE-
TITLE 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES
Part B - Steering and Sailing Rules

-HEAD-
PART B - STEERING AND SAILING RULES

-End-


-CITE-
33 USC subpart i - conduct of vessels in any condition of
visibility 01/19/04

-EXPCITE-
TITLE 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES
Part B - Steering and Sailing Rules
subpart i - conduct of vessels in any condition of visibility

-HEAD-
SUBPART I - CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN ANY CONDITION OF VISIBILITY

-End-



-CITE-
33 USC Sec. 2004 01/19/04

-EXPCITE-
TITLE 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES
Part B - Steering and Sailing Rules
subpart i - conduct of vessels in any condition of visibility

-HEAD-
Sec. 2004. Application (Rule 4)

-STATUTE-
Rules in this subpart apply in any condition of visibility.

-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 96-591, Sec. 2, Dec. 24, 1980, 94 Stat. 3417.)

-REFTEXT-
REFERENCES IN TEXT
Rules in this subpart, referred to in text, means sections 2004
to 2010 of this title.

-COD-
CODIFICATION
Section was enacted as part of section 2 of Pub. L. 96-591 which
enacted the Inland Navigational Rules which comprise this
subchapter.

-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in sections 2013, 2018, 2019 of this
title.

-End-



-CITE-
33 USC Sec. 2005 01/19/04

-EXPCITE-
TITLE 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES
Part B - Steering and Sailing Rules
subpart i - conduct of vessels in any condition of visibility

-HEAD-
Sec. 2005. Look-out (Rule 5)

-STATUTE-
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 so as to make a full
appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision.

-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 96-591, Sec. 2, Dec. 24, 1980, 94 Stat. 3418.)

-COD-
CODIFICATION
Section was enacted as part of section 2 of Pub. L. 96-591 which
enacted the Inland Navigational Rules which comprise this
subchapter.

-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in sections 2004, 2013, 2018, 2019 of
this title.

-End-



-CITE-
33 USC Sec. 2006 01/19/04

-EXPCITE-
TITLE 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES
Part B - Steering and Sailing Rules
subpart i - conduct of vessels in any condition of visibility

-HEAD-
Sec. 2006. Safe speed (Rule 6)

-STATUTE-
Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that
she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be
stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing
circumstances and conditions.
In determining a safe speed the following factors shall be among
those taken into account:
(a) By all vessels:
(i) the state of visibility;
(ii) the traffic density including concentration of fishing
vessels or any other vessels;
(iii) the maneuverability of the vessel with special reference
to stopping distance and turning ability in the prevailing
conditions;
(iv) at night the presence of background light such as from
shores lights or from back scatter of her own lights;
(v) the state of wind, sea, and current, and the proximity of
navigational hazards;
(vi) the draft in relation to the available depth of water.

(b) Additionally, by vessels with operational radar:
(i) the characteristics, efficiency and limitations of the
radar equipment;
(ii) any constraints imposed by the radar range scale in use;
(iii) the effect on radar detection of the sea state, weather,
and other sources of interference;
(iv) the possibility that small vessels, ice and other floating
objects may not be detected by radar at an adequate range;
(v) the number, location, and movement of vessels detected by
radar; and
(vi) the more exact assessment of the visibility that may be
possible when radar is used to determine the range of vessels or
other objects in the vicinity.

-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 96-591, Sec. 2, Dec. 24, 1980, 94 Stat. 3418.)

-COD-
CODIFICATION
Section was enacted as part of section 2 of Pub. L. 96-591 which
enacted the Inland Navigational Rules which comprise this
subchapter.

-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in sections 2004, 2013, 2018, 2019 of
this title.

-End-



-CITE-
33 USC Sec. 2007 01/19/04

-EXPCITE-
TITLE 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES
Part B - Steering and Sailing Rules
subpart i - conduct of vessels in any condition of visibility

-HEAD-
Sec. 2007. Risk of collision (Rule 7)

-STATUTE-
(a) Determination if risk exists
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 be deemed
to exist.
(b) Radar
Proper use shall be made of radar equipment if fitted and
operational, including long-range scanning to obtain early warning
of risk of collision and radar plotting or equivalent systematic
observation of detected objects.
(c) Scanty information
Assumptions shall not be made on the basis of scanty information,
especially scanty radar information.
(d) Considerations taken into account in determining if risk exists
In determining if risk of collision exists the following
considerations shall be among those taken into account:
(i) such risk shall be deemed to exist if the compass bearing
of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change; and
(ii) such risk may sometimes exist even when an appreciable
bearing change is evident, particularly when approaching a very
large vessel or a tow or when approaching a vessel at close
range.

-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 96-591, Sec. 2, Dec. 24, 1980, 94 Stat. 3418.)

-COD-
CODIFICATION
Section was enacted as part of section 2 of Pub. L. 96-591 which
enacted the Inland Navigational Rules which comprise this
subchapter.

-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in sections 2004, 2013, 2018, 2019 of
this title.

-End-



-CITE-
33 USC Sec. 2008 01/19/04

-EXPCITE-
TITLE 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES
Part B - Steering and Sailing Rules
subpart i - conduct of vessels in any condition of visibility

-HEAD-
Sec. 2008. Action to avoid collision (Rule 8)

-STATUTE-
(a) General characteristics of action taken to avoid collision
Any action taken to avoid collision shall, if the circumstances
of the case admit, be positive, made in ample time and with due
regard to the observance of good seamanship.
(b) Readily apparent alterations in course or speed
Any alteration of course or speed to avoid collision shall, if
the circumstances of the case admit, be large enough to be readily
apparent to another vessel observing visually or by radar; a
succession of small alterations of course or speed should be
avoided.
(c) Alteration of course to avoid close-quarters situation
If there is sufficient sea room, alteration of course alone may
be the most effective action to avoid a close-quarters situation
provided that it is made in good time, is substantial and does not
result in another close-quarters situation.
(d) Action to result in passing at safe distance
Action taken to avoid collision with another vessel shall be such
as to result in passing at a safe distance. The effectiveness of
the action shall be carefully checked until the other vessel is
finally past and clear.
(e) Slackening of vessel speed; stopping or reversing means of
propulsion
If necessary to avoid collision or allow more time to assess the
situation, a vessel shall slacken her speed or take all way off by
stopping or reversing her means of propulsion.
(f) Early action to allow room for safe passage
(i) A vessel which, by any of these Rules, is required not to
impede the passage or safe passage of another vessel shall, when
required by the circumstances of the case, take early action to
allow sufficient sea room for the safe passage of the other vessel.
(ii) A vessel required not to impede the passage or safe passage
of another vessel is not relieved of this obligation if approaching
the other vessel so as to involve risk of collision and shall, when
taking action, have full regard to the action which may be required
by the Rules of this part.
(iii) A vessel the passage of which is not to be impeded remains
fully obliged to comply with the Rules of this part when the two
vessels are approaching one another so as to involve risk of
collision.

-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 96-591, Sec. 2, Dec. 24, 1980, 94 Stat. 3419; Pub. L.
102-241, Sec. 21(2), Dec. 19, 1991, 105 Stat. 2217.)

-COD-
CODIFICATION
Section was enacted as part of section 2 of Pub. L. 96-591 which
enacted the Inland Navigational Rules which comprise this
subchapter.


-MISC1-
AMENDMENTS
1991 - Par. (f). Pub. L. 102-241 added par. (f).

-SECREF-
SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS
This section is referred to in sections 2004, 2013, 2018, 2019 of
this title.

-End-



-CITE-
33 USC Sec. 2009 01/19/04

-EXPCITE-
TITLE 33 - NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS
CHAPTER 34 - INLAND NAVIGATIONAL RULES
SUBCHAPTER I - RULES
Part B - Steering and Sailing Rules
subpart i - conduct of vessels in any condition of visibility

-HEAD-
Sec. 2009. Narrow channels (Rule 9)

-STATUTE-
(a) Keeping near to outer limit of channel or fairway which lies on
vessel's starboard side; exception
(i) 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.
(ii) Notwithstanding paragraph (a)(i) and Rule 14(a), a
power-driven vessel operating in narrow channels or fairways on the
Great Lakes, Western Rivers, or waters specified by the Secretary,
and proceeding downbound with a following current shall have the
right-of-way over an upbound vessel, shall propose the manner and
place of passage, and shall initiate the maneuvering signals
prescribed by Rule 34(a)(i), as appropriate. The vessel proceeding
upbound against the current shall hold as necessary to permit safe
passing.
(b) Vessels of less than 20 meters in length; sailing vessels
A vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel
shall not impede the passage of a vessel that can safely navigate
only within a narrow channel or fairway.
(c) Vessels engaged in fishing
A vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede the passage of any
other vessel navigating within a narrow channel or fairway.
(d) Crossing narrow channels or fairways
A vessel shall not cross a narrow channel or fairway if such
crossing impedes the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate
only within that channel or fairway. The latter vessel shall use
the danger signal prescribed in Rule 34(d) if in doubt as to the
intention of the crossing vessel.
(e) Overtaking vessels
(i) In a narrow channel or fairway when overtaking, the
power-driven vessel intending to overtake another power-driven
vessel shall indicate her intention by sounding the appropriate
signal prescribed in Rule 34(c) and take steps to permit safe
passing. The power-driven vessel being overtaken, if in agreement,
shall sound the same signal and may, if specifically agreed to (!1)
take steps to permit safe passing. If in doubt she shall sound the
danger signal prescribed in Rule 34(d).

(ii) This Rule does not relieve the overtaking vessel of her
obligation under Rule 13.
(f) Areas of obscured visibility due to intervening obstructions
A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a narrow channel or fairway
where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction
shall navigate with particular alertness and caution and shall
sound the appropriate signal prescribed in Rule 34(e).
(g) Avoidance of anchoring in narrow channels
Every vessel shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid
anchoring in a narrow channel.

-SOURCE-
(Pub. L. 96-591, Sec. 2, Dec. 24, 1980, 94 Stat. 3419; Pub. L.
104-324, title VII, Sec. 701(1), Oct. 19, 1996, 110 Stat. 3932.)

-REFTEXT-
REFERENCES IN TEXT
Rule 14, referred to in par. (a)(ii), is classified to section
2014 of this title.
Rule 34, referred to in pars. (a)(ii), (d), (e)(i), and (f), is
classified to section 2034 of this title.
Rule 13, referred to in par. (e)(ii), is classified to section
2013 of this title.

-COD-
CODIFICATION
Section was enacted as part of section 2 of Pub. L. 96-591 which
enacted the Inland Navigational Rules which comprise this
subchapter. (continued)