Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Give Way: When a boat is moving, it may need to slow down or change direction so that another boat can pass safely without having to change its own course. This is called giving way, and it is an important rule that helps prevent accidents on the water.
Definition: When a vessel deviates from its course or slows down to allow another vessel to pass without changing its course, it is said to give way according to maritime law.
Example: If two boats are approaching each other head-on, both boats must give way to the right. This means that each boat must turn to the right to avoid a collision. If one boat does not turn, it is said to be the "stand-on" vessel, and the other boat must give way by turning to the right or slowing down to allow the stand-on vessel to pass.
Explanation: The example illustrates how vessels must give way to each other to avoid collisions. In this case, the vessels are approaching each other head-on, and both must take action to avoid a collision. The vessel that does not turn is the stand-on vessel, and the other vessel must give way by turning or slowing down to avoid a collision.