Responsibility

Nothing in these Rules shall exonerate any vessel from the consequences of neglecting these Rules or neglecting any precaution required by ordinary practice of seamanship.

Rule 2 establishes that compliance with the COLREGs does not relieve a vessel of responsibility. The ordinary practice of seamanship and the special circumstances of each case must always be considered.

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 seamanship, or by the special circumstances of the case.

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.

Key Takeaways

COLREGs compliance alone does not exempt from responsibility

Good seamanship may require actions beyond the rules

Departure from rules is permitted to avoid immediate danger

Special circumstances must always be considered

Common Mistakes

Blindly following rules without considering the specific situation

Failing to take additional precautions required by good seamanship

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