Same reasoning: a tow truck “should not be able” to collide with a state trooper’s high performance patrol car.
But if the tow truck driver crosses the double yellow line at the last second....collision.
Even though “the state trooper’s patrol car could EASILY avoid and intentional ramming by a tow truck on the highway. Easily.”
I'll preface by saying I know nothing about Navy protocol, but I would have thought that there would be a standing rule that no other non US Navy vessel be allowed to come within say 500 yards of a ship. PERIOD. If a ship get any closer defensive measures are immediately carried out. This could include changing course and going full speed.
Very possible it was intentional on the cargo ships part, but no way on earth they should have been able to execute. Someone fouled up. Big time.
Please see 165.