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Rule 7: Risk of Collision (COLREGS)

Last reviewed October 21, 2026

The short answer

Rule 7 says every vessel must use all available means to decide whether risk of collision exists, and if in doubt, assume it does. Risk is deemed to exist when an approaching vessel's compass bearing doesn't appreciably change, and may exist even with a bearing change near a large vessel, a tow, or at close range.

The rule text

If there is any doubt such risk shall be deemed to exist.

International Rules, U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook (NAVCEN, 2024 corrected edition), Rule 7

such risk shall be deemed to exist if the compass bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change;

International Rules, U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook (NAVCEN, 2024 corrected edition), Rule 7

What it means on the water

  • Use all available means (7(a)).
  • Use radar properly if fitted: long-range scanning and plotting or equivalent (7(b)).
  • Don't assume on scanty information, especially scanty radar information (7(c)).
  • Steady bearing, closing range: risk exists (7(d)(i)). Large vessels, tows, and close range can carry risk even with bearing change (7(d)(ii)).

International vs Inland

Same in both International and Inland.

Common exam traps

  • Thinking a changing bearing always means no risk. Rule 7(d)(ii) says not near a large vessel, tow, or at close range.

Try 3 questions on Rule 7

  1. An approaching vessel's bearing stays steady. Risk of collision:

    1. Does not exist
    2. Is deemed to exist
    3. Only in fog
    4. Only at night
    Show answer

    B. Is deemed to exist Rule 7(d)(i).

  2. If in doubt about risk of collision:

    1. Assume none
    2. Assume it exists
    3. Sound five short
    4. Ignore
    Show answer

    B. Assume it exists Rule 7(a).

  3. Can risk exist with a bearing change?

    1. Never
    2. Yes, e.g. near a very large vessel or tow or at close range
    3. Only Inland
    4. Only for sailing vessels
    Show answer

    B. Yes, e.g. near a very large vessel or tow or at close range Rule 7(d)(ii).

Frequently asked questions

How do I tell if risk of collision exists?

Watch the compass bearing. If it doesn't appreciably change, risk is deemed to exist (Rule 7(d)(i)).

What does Rule 7 say about radar?

Proper use is required if fitted and operational, including long-range scanning and plotting (Rule 7(b)).

Same Inland?

Yes.

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