Under Rule 7, what should a vessel do if there is any doubt about the risk of collision?

When there is any doubt about the risk of collision, the appropriate action for a vessel, as outlined in Rule 7 of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), is to take immediate action to avoid the risk of collision. This principle emphasizes the importance of being proactive when navigating, especially in potentially hazardous situations.

Rule 7 highlights the need for careful assessment of the circumstances, and if there is any uncertainty regarding the possibility of a collision, it necessitates prompt and decisive action. This may involve altering course, adjusting speed, or employing other navigational maneuvers to ensure safe separation from other vessels. By prioritizing immediate action, vessels can effectively reduce the potential for accidents and enhance overall maritime safety.

This approach underscores the responsibility of the mariner to safeguard life at sea, and taking timely action is essential, particularly when navigational visibility is limited or when encountering other vessels in congested waters.