How does Rule 13 define an overtaking situation?

Rule 13 of the USCG Rules of the Road provides clarity on overtaking situations, specifying that an overtaking vessel is one that approaches another vessel from behind. This is significant because the responsibilities and navigational rules differ when a vessel is being overtaken. The vessel that is being overtaken has the right of way, and the overtaking vessel must take care to avoid collision by keeping a safe distance.

In an overtaking situation, it is crucial to recognize that the vessel being overtaken may not initially be aware of the overtaking vessel's presence. Therefore, the overtaking vessel has the obligation to take appropriate actions, such as altering course or speed, ensuring safe navigation.

The other options describe scenarios that do not align with the definition of an overtaking situation. A vessel being approached from the side does not establish an overtaking context since it does not involve one vessel coming from behind another. Similarly, a vessel that is already passed is not relevant in the context of overtaking, as the overtaking maneuver has already been completed. Finally, a vessel traveling in an opposite direction also does not indicate an overtaking scenario, as both vessels are on a collision course and are not engaged in a passing maneuver.