2.16.4.1 CAUSES OF COLLISION
For further details please refer to
section 1.8 Difference between P&I insurance and Hull and Machinery
insurance
Gard News 178, The interface between Hull and Machinery insurance and
P&I from the P&I claim handler’s perspective
Gard News 173, Collisions – why do they occur?
Despite the fact that more and better navigation aids are available, collisions
nevertheless do occur. The causes are often
over reliance on the navigation aids available
mistaken evaluation of the information provided by such aids
wrong conclusions drawn from given situations
too narrow safety margins
underestimating the prevailing tides and currents
overestimating the vessel’s manoeuvrability
insufficient reduction of speed in restricted visibility
failure to post and maintain a lookout
insufficient knowledge or wrong assessment of the ship’s position
incorrect identification of VHF traffic causing confusion between two
vessels
poor communication between the Master and the officer of the watch as
to who is actually in command of the watch
insufficient engine or rudder manoeuvre in adequate time
sudden failure of navigational equipment, propulsion or
steering systems.
The best precautions to prevent collisions are
constant vigilance and attention
proper and clear communication by and between everybody in charge of
the navigation of the vessel
proper application of the Collision Prevention Regulations.