Under which circumstance is it permissible to deviate from navigation rules?

Deviating from navigation rules is permissible when it is absolutely necessary to avoid a collision. This principle is rooted in maritime law, which prioritizes safety on the water. In emergency situations where adhering strictly to navigation rules could result in an accident, the primary duty of a boat operator is to take action to avoid a collision.

This rule ensures that the safety of all vessels and individuals involved takes precedence over the rigid application of rules that might otherwise dictate movement on the water. Therefore, if a situation arises where a collision is imminent, a boat operator is expected to act decisively to maneuver away from danger even if it means momentarily breaching established navigation protocols.

In contrast, navigating in specific weather conditions, such as fog, or proximity to a harbor does not inherently provide sufficient justification to deviate from established navigation rules unless it is to prevent an accident. Presence of other boats, while it may create a challenging environment, also does not alone warrant a breach of navigation rules unless a collision is unavoidable.