Who shall sound maneuvering signals on inland waters when vessels are overtaking and in sight of each other?

When two vessels are in sight of each other and one is overtaking the other on inland waters, it is the responsibility of the power-driven vessel to sound the appropriate maneuvering signals. This is specified in the Inland Navigation Rules, which distinguish the roles of different types of vessels during interactions.

Power-driven vessels are equipped with the capability to maneuver and change course more readily than non-power driven vessels, such as sailing or fishing vessels. Therefore, when a power-driven vessel is overtaking, it must communicate its intentions to ensure safe navigation and compliance with the rules of the road. This is critical for avoiding collisions and maintaining safety on the water.

In this context, non-power-driven vessels, fishing vessels, and sailing vessels do not have the same level of maneuverability or responsibility to initiate signals when being overtaken. Instead, they must respond to the signals made by the power-driven vessel. This system of signaling helps to maintain order and predictability in vessel movements on inland waters, making the role of the power-driven vessel essential in overtaking situations.