Before a risk of collision exists, which vessel can maneuver?

In situations where there is no immediate risk of collision, either vessel involved in a potential encounter has the freedom to maneuver as necessary. This means that both vessels can take actions that they believe are prudent and safe to avoid a potential hazard or to navigate effectively. The rules governing vessels under the COLREGs recognize that without a defined risk of collision, both vessels retain the ability to alter their course and speed to ensure safe navigation or to maintain safe distances.

This flexibility allows vessels to react to changing conditions, such as shifts in weather, traffic, or their own operational needs, before any collision risk becomes apparent. Thus, the correct understanding is that until a definitive risk of collision is identified, both vessels maintain the autonomy to maneuver at will.