The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREG) demand that a proper lookout is kept at all times, and the right of way rule is followed.
The following factors can considerably reduce visibility, among other things:
- 
                Gear trim angle 
- 
                Trim tab angle 
- 
                Load and load position 
- 
                Speed 
- 
                Rapid acceleration 
- 
                Changeover from displacement speed to planing 
- 
                Sea conditions 
- 
                Rain and thunderstorms 
- 
                Darkness and fog 
- 
                Inner lighting when under way in the dark 
- 
                Position of curtains 
- 
                People and equipment that block the driver's view. 
Make only small adjustments at a time. Holding down the button for the trim tab for any length of time can result in partial loss of control of the boat.