If TCPA indicates a high collision risk, what is the most appropriate initial action?

• A. Increase speed to pass ahead.
• B. Maintain course and speed while monitoring.
• C. Initiate avoidance maneuvers to increase separation.
• D. Notify maintenance to check propulsion.

Answer: (C)

TCPA is the predicted time until two vessels would be at their closest point of approach if both keep their current course and speed. When TCPA indicates a high collision risk, the priority is to increase separation as soon as possible. That means initiating avoidance maneuvers—altering course and/or speed to create more distance and a safe passing path. Simply maintaining course and speed while monitoring won’t remove the danger, and trying to “rush ahead” by increasing speed can worsen the situation or leave little time to react. Calling maintenance for propulsion issues isn’t relevant to resolving a traffic collision risk.