Red over red over red navigation lights indicate which condition?

• A. Constrained by draft
• B. Not under command
• C. Fishing at night
• D. Towing at night

Answer: (A)

Three red lights stacked in a vertical line signal a vessel that is restricted in its ability to maneuver. This status encompasses situations like being constrained by its draft, meaning the vessel can’t easily alter course or speed to avoid a collision. That specific three-red-light pattern is the standard indication for this condition.

Not under command is shown with two red lights in a vertical line, so that option doesn’t fit the three-light pattern. Towing at night and fishing at night use other light configurations (such as a towing light or gear-based signaling), not three red lights in a row, so those choices don’t match either.