When in doubt about a head-on situation, what should a vessel do?

In a head-on situation, the best course of action is to assume that the situation is indeed a head-on encounter and act accordingly. This principle aligns with the COLREGs, specifically Rule 14, which indicates that vessels should determine whether they are on a collision course and take evasive action if necessary. By assuming it is a head-on situation, the vessel will prioritize safety and take appropriate measures to avoid a collision, such as altering course or speed.

This approach is critical because it promotes proactive decision-making in situations where there is uncertainty. Acting on the assumption of a head-on encounter facilitates timely actions that can prevent accidents, as waiting for the other vessel to take action could lead to confusion and increase the risk of collision. Therefore, taking the initiative to act when in doubt helps ensure navigational safety on the waters.