Legal Definitions - give way

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.