Coast Guard quiz question

[gary jensen]

I sat for the "rules of the road" test today, in Alameda, at the Coast Guard testing center. One of the quiz questions asked "When a 'HEAD ON SITUATION' existed"? There were four multiple choice answers to choose from. The two that I narrowed in on were A. When you see, forward of you, "BOTH" side lights,and the masthead light of the other vessel (in a line)- B.When you see, forward of you, "BOTH" side lights of the other vessel (in a line)....................... The rule is partially answered in Rules of the Road # 14 "Head-On Situation". I protested the Coast Guards answer. Can anyone tell me the correct answer?

 

[Chuck]

Masthead light

I don't claim to be an expert, but it seems that if you see a masthead light, you are looking at an anchored boat (I remember a joke about a lighthouse...)

 

[Stuart]

masthead light

Chuck; you need to look up the definition of a masthead light.

 

[gary jensen]

quiz question

On the Coast Guard question of what constitutes a "head-on situation", I gave the answer seeing both sidelights,only,(ahead). Both answers would be correct as, A SAILBOAT, (rule 25, (i) and (ii)) be required to display ONLY sidelights and a sternlight, at night. According to rule 14 (b) a "head-on situation" would require sidelights AND a masthead light be observed. I did protest the available answers as NO consideration was given as to a sailboats status, at night, on the water.

 

[Chuck]

Masthead Light

OOPS! Sorry, as a sailboater, I'm always thinking about MY boat.Never mind.

 

[Joe]

Trick questions on Coast Guard exam?

I agree with Gary that both answers would be correct if the question did not qualify the vessel. A "head on" situation refers to any moving vessels I believe, not just one under power. If the question was worded " what basic conditions constitute a head-on situation for any boat" then I would lean towards B. If the question was worded "which of the following conditions constitute a head-on situation?" then I say both A & B are correct. But if the question is in reference to a boat under power, then A is the answer. Sounds like the Real Estate Exam....