What is the primary purpose of the Navigation Rules?

The primary purpose of the Navigation Rules is to prevent collisions and accidents on the water. These rules are designed to provide a clear set of guidelines that boaters must follow to ensure safe navigation. By establishing protocols for right-of-way, signal usage, and other navigational elements, the rules help to coordinate the movement of different vessels. This structured approach reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings or miscommunications among mariners, which can lead to dangerous situations. Therefore, adherence to these guidelines is essential for ensuring safety on the water and protecting lives and property.

The other options relate to aspects of maritime activity but do not accurately capture the fundamental intention of the Navigation Rules. For example, while regulating fishing zones and establishing speed limits are important for managing different aspects of marine activities, they are not the primary focus of the Navigation Rules, which specifically aim to enhance safety and prevent accidents. Reducing maritime traffic is also not the goal; rather, the rules facilitate safe coexistence of multiple vessels on busy waterways.