Rule 2 Explained
Responsibility
(a) Nothing in these Rules shall exonerate any vessel, or the owner, master or crew thereof, from the consequences of any neglect to comply with these Rules or of the neglect of any precaution which may be required by the ordinary practice of seamen, or by the special circumstances of the case.
(b) In construing and complying with these Rules due regard shall be had to all dangers of navigation and collision and to any special circumstances, including the limitations of the vessels involved, which may make a departure from these Rules necessary to avoid immediate danger.
Explanation
Everybody is responsible for any action taken aboard a vessel, and if involved in a collision then both parties are responsible.
* Neglect to comply with the regulations may include;
* Not maintaining a proper look-out (Rule 5)
* Not keeping a safe speed when necessary (Rule 6)
* Not using all available means to avoid a collision (Rules 7 and 8)
* Not taking a series of compass bearings of a crossing vessel (Rule 7(d)(i))
* Not making proper use of the radar (Rule 7(b)
* Not making correct use of a Traffic Separation Scheme (Rule 10)
* Not following the Steering and Sailing Rules (Part B)
* Not displaying the correct navigation lights and shapes
* Not sounding or sounding the incorrect fog signal (Rule 35)
* Not complying with Rule 19 in restricted visibility
The ship owner is responsible for ensuring the vessel is seaworthy and is not exonerated from his responsibilities.