Which Navigation Rules are in force on the navigable waterways?

The Inland Navigation Rules are the correct reference for navigable waterways within the United States. These rules are designed specifically to govern the conduct of vessels operating in inland waters, which includes rivers, lakes, and certain coastal areas. They provide a structured framework to promote safety and prevent collisions among vessels navigating these waters.

The Inland Navigation Rules differ from the International Navigation Rules, which apply to vessels operating on the high seas and in navigable waters between countries. While the International rules consist of standard practices that must be followed by all vessels globally, the Inland rules are tailored to the specific needs and conditions found within the nation’s inland waterways.

Local Navigation Regulations may supplement these rules, providing additional guidance tailored to particular areas or situations, but they cannot override the governing principles established by the Inland Navigation Rules. Common Law Rules do exist but are generally not the primary governing framework for navigation; instead, they might provide legal precedents in certain cases but do not serve as a structured set of rules for daily navigation practice.

Understanding the distinction between these various sets of regulations is vital for safe boating and navigation in different legal contexts. The emphasis on Inland Navigation Rules ensures that operators are aware of the specific protocols that are necessary for safe and compliant navigation in the waterways of the US.