23-2-524. Passing rule and right-of-way. (1) When two vessels are approaching each other "head on" or nearly so, each vessel shall bear to the right and pass the other vessel on its left side to avoid the risk of collision.

(2) When vessels approach each other obliquely or at right angles, the vessel that has the other vessel on the starboard side shall keep out of the way and shall, if the circumstances of the case require, avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel.

(3) A vessel overtaking another vessel shall keep out of the way of the vessel being overtaken.

(4) When a sailboat and motorboat are operating as to involve a risk of collision with each other, the motorboat shall yield to the sailboat in all cases.