Polaris 2003 MSX - Manual (Page 53)

51
OPERATION
Navigational Rules
This watercraft must be operated in accordance with all
navigational rules and regulations governing it and the
waterway on which it’s operated. These rules are used
and enforced internationally, as well as by the U.S.
Coast Guard and local law enforcement. Any operator
of this watercraft should be aware of these rules and
should obey them when encountering other vessels.
The following rules are condensed and are provided
only for your convenience. Consult a U.S. Coast Guard
Auxiliary or Department of Motor Vehicles for a
complete set of rules governing the waters where
you’ll be riding. You may also obtain this information
when registering your watercraft.
Right-of-way and Give-way
In nautical terms the stand-on (privileged) vessel has
the right-of-way and the give-way (burdened) vessel
must yield or give way.
Stand-on Vessel
The vessel with the right-of-way has the duty to
continue its course and speed, except to avoid an
immediate collision. By maintaining course and speed,
other vessels should be able to determine how best to
avoid interfering with its course.
Give-way Vessel
The give-way vessel is responsible for taking positive
action to stay clear of the stand-on vessel. Give-way
vessels should not cross in front of stand-on vessels.
The give-way vessel should slow down or change
direction briefly and cross behind the stand-on vessel.
The give-way vessel’s actions should be clear and
understandable by the stand-on vessel.