What is the primary purpose of the Rules of the Road?

The primary purpose of the Rules of the Road is to prevent collisions on the waterway. These rules are designed to provide a framework for behavior and maneuvers among vessels, ensuring that all operators understand their responsibilities and the expectations for navigating safely. By adhering to these established guidelines, mariners can effectively communicate their intentions and respond appropriately to the actions of other vessels, which greatly reduces the risk of accidents and promotes safety on the water.

While regulating fishing activities, establishing anchoring procedures, and maintaining vessel speed are important aspects of maritime operation, they are not the primary focus of the Rules of the Road. The core intent is to create a safe navigational environment for all vessels, thereby prioritizing collision avoidance above all else.