Night Running; Bridge Clearance; Bridge Lighting - Regal LS4 Owner's Manual

Night Running

Boats operating between sunset and sunrise
( hours vary by state), or in conditions of reduced
visibility, must use navigation lights. Night time
operation, especially during bad weather and fog,
can be dangerous. All Rules of the Road apply at
night, but it is best to slow down and stay clear of
all boats regardless of who has the right-of-way.
To see more easily at night, avoid bright lights when
possible. Also, it is helpful to have a passenger
(appoint as lookout) keep watch for other boats,
water hazards and navigational aids.
To determine the size, speed and direction of other
vessels at night, you should use the running lights.
A green light indicates starboard side, and a red
light indicates port side. Generally, if you see a
green light, you have the right-of-way. If you see a
red light, give way to the other vessel.

Bridge Clearance

Be aware that your vessel requires a specifi ed
bridge clearance height. This height is a measured
estimate from the waterline to the top of the
highest equipment height. The estimated height
can change because of variances in the loaded
condition of the vessel and equipment variances.
Consult the bridge clearance specifi cations
located in Chapter 12 (Technical Information
section). Some bridges are tendered. Know and
use the proper bridge signals when approaching
these bridges (see bridge signals in this chapter).
You can also monitor and communicate on channel
13 of a VHF radio for bridge information in most
domestic locals. Other bridges are marked with a
clearance measurement and you are on your own.
It is recommended that you have a look out posted
for additional visual assistance when entering a
bridge zone.
After determining your vessel will clear the bridge
proceed with caution at a safe idle speed. Keep
your eye on vessel traffi c at all times in order to
react quickly. Keep both hands on the helm since
you may need to change course because of current
and wind conditions. Resume a safe speed once
clear of the bridge structure and acknowledgment
of clear visibility. Just use common sense around
any type of bridge structure!

Bridge Lighting:

Bridge lighting is maintained by the Department of
Homeland Security. On the following pages are 2
typical examples of night-time bridge lighting. As
the skipper approaches bascule and fi xed bridges
light position (arc of visibility) and color will indicate
the safe channel through the bridge. Notice green
denotes the "safe" entry location on single-span
bridges and green or white on multiple-span
bridges designates the main channel. In addition,
green denotes the "up" position for single and
double lift bridges.
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