When hailed by a marine patrol officer in Virginia, what is your required action?

When hailed by a marine patrol officer, the appropriate action is to stop and permit the officer to come alongside. This protocol ensures the safety of both the officer and vessel operators by allowing for an effective and safe communication. Stopping allows law enforcement to assess the situation and safely approach your vessel, which is crucial for compliance with marine safety regulations.

Responding appropriately to a marine patrol officer not only demonstrates respect for authority and the law but also helps maintain order on the waterways. Ignoring the officer or attempting to speed away could lead to consequences, including fines, increased scrutiny, or even legal action, as it can be interpreted as evading a lawful stop, which poses safety risks. A simple acknowledgment without stopping, such as a wave, would also not meet the legal requirement to comply with a marine officer's request, potentially leading to misunderstandings or further complications.