What is a vessel using a traffic separation scheme prohibited from doing?

• A. Leaving The Scheme
• B. Proceeding In An Inappropriate Traffic Lane
• C. Anchoring In The Lane
• D. Turning In Place

Answer: (B)

In a traffic separation scheme, traffic is organized into lanes with a defined direction to reduce the risk of head-on or crossing collisions in busy areas. Once you’re inside the scheme, you’re expected to follow the designated lane that matches your direction of travel and not sail in a different lane or against the flow. This structured flow is why proceeding in a lane that isn’t appropriate for your course is prohibited—the lanes are laid out to keep traffic moving predictably and safely. If you find yourself in the wrong lane, the proper action is to adjust course to re-enter the correct lane or exit the scheme at a designated point, exercising caution to avoid interfering with other traffic. Anchoring in a lane would block traffic and create a hazard within the scheme, so it’s also avoided, but the primary prohibition tested here is staying in the correct lane for your direction.