Rule 14

 

If the ROW boat has not complied with 14(a). then they themselves risk disqualification even if the only damage is to themselves.

Once it becomes obvious that the give way boat is non compliant and a collision is probable, then under rule 14, the ROW boat is compelled to do what it can to avoid (or mitigate) contact.

Originally posted by Wolf2 Rule 14 states that a right of way boat shall be exonerated from breaking rule 14 if contact is made and there is no damage or injury done.   What if there is contact and the only damage done is to the right of way boat; can she be penalised for causing damage to herself?

Rule 14( b ) says a right of way boat  or a boat entitled to room or mark-room shall be exonerated is she breaks rule 14 and the contact does not cause damage or injury.

The rule does not deal with whether or not any particular boat caused damage or injury, merely whether contact caused it.

Certainly depends on individual situations.

We need to remember that we don't get to exoneration under rule 14( b ) until we find that it was reasonably possible to avoid contact, in the case of a right of way boat or a boat entitled to room or mark-room, acting no sooner than when it becomes clear that the other boat is not keeping clear or giving room or mark-room (rule 14( a )).

We also need to remember that rule 14 requires a boat not only to take action to avoid contact but  to actually or successfully avoid contact if reasonably possible.