Who is responsible for avoiding a collision when two vessels are in the same area?

The responsibility for avoiding a collision when two vessels are in the same area lies with the operators of both vessels. This principle is foundational in boating safety and is outlined in navigational rules, which emphasize that each operator must maintain a proper lookout and take appropriate actions to prevent accidents. Both vessel operators share the duty to assess their course, speed, and the positions of other vessels, as well as to communicate effectively to avoid misunderstandings. This collaborative responsibility ensures safer navigation and enhances the overall safety of watercraft operations on the water.

The other options suggest a hierarchy of responsibility that does not reflect the shared duties of vessel operators. The notion that only the larger vessel or a specific individual, such as the person on the bow, should be responsible overlooks the fact that both vessels are actively engaged in navigating and must work together to avoid collisions. The role of the Coast Guard is primarily one of enforcement and aid; they do not directly manage the navigational safety of individual vessels in close quarters.