You are legally responsible for for the safety of those on your boat, any damage your boat causes to other boats and property, and all others injured by any damage you cause. Just like driving a car, if you don't know and obey the rules, the fact that you didn't know them is NOT a valid defense.

CROSSING: Every boat has a DANGER ZONE from straight in front (the bow) to past the middle of its right side. Like when meeting another car at a street intersection, the one on the RIGHT has the RIGHT OF WAY. You must YIELD to boats in your DANGER ZONE.

POWERBOATS MUST YIELD TO SAILBOATS and boats being rowed or paddled, except in a narrow channel. Stay well clear of all big vessels.

OVERTAKING: Be ready for trouble when a power boat passes you in a narrow waterway. As the lead boat (which always has the right of way) stay on your side of the channel and maintain a steady speed so that the overtaking vessel can pass you safely. Use your radio to discuss this with the passing boat.

MEETING: As in a car, both stay to your right & as far apart as practical, so its easier & safer to cross each other's wake. (Okay to pass left, if both know the plan.) Give notice by steering to the right or left while still far apart. Then stay with that plan unless the other boat indicates otherwise. If you have a CB of VHF, use it. Be careful.