Define 'risk of collision' in COLREGs.

• A. A real possibility that two vessels may collide if actions are not taken.
• B. A guaranteed collision if you do not take action.
• C. The probability of piracy in a channel.
• D. The risk of weather hazards.

Answer: (A)

In COLREGs, risk of collision means there is a real possibility that two vessels may collide if neither changes course or speed. It’s about a potential meethead scenario that could lead to a collision unless one or both vessels take action. This is why mariners are required to assess the situation using all available means and, if risk exists, to act early to avoid a collision under the rules.

The option you highlighted matches this idea exactly: it describes a real possibility of collision if actions are not taken. It isn’t about a guaranteed collision or about weather or piracy; it’s specifically about the potential for collision between vessels based on their relative motion.