Blind spots, rights of way, communication

biffmalibu · Since 30 Jun 2011 42 Posts Mosier, Oregon

A big topic, but important. I will try and be brief. Seen some close calls and some dumb communication recently.

1) Remember to look in your blind spots frequently. This goes for all types of craft. Check your blind spots before initiating your turns, especially downwind turns!

2) Downwind craft technically has right of way. But, no matter who has right of way, all sailors must avoid collision. Even having right of way, it can be dumb or rude to run somebody else off a big fat swell. There should be no intent to set a collision course, just because you have right of way! Intentionally crashing into the water is a legit way to avoid. Sometimes, it's your best choice. So, just do it.

3) If you hear a whistle or a yell, especially from your blind spot, be thankful. That person just let you know he/she was in your blind spot! It's loud out there, so, especially if you don't turn your head to look, you could get another whistle/yell. It's called "communication". Kinda like the Whos from Whoville ("We're here!"). Be thankful and happy, not angry. Cussing that person out for communicating is really not the right spirit.