Boats under sail always have the right of way over powercraft. If power is your chosen method of boating, be aware of the instability your wake can create for sailboats. If you find yourself in the shipping lanes, give big ships a wide berth. These zones are marked with signs, so stay alert and keep your speed down. Also, stay out of delicate sidewaters where your craft may damage the nurseries of shellfish and fish.
Emergencies happen on the water.
The Coast Guard is particular about what constitutes an emergency, and it will not immediately come to your rescue in all situations. Running aground in the waterway is rarely considered an emergency because if you get stuck, it is commonly understood that you can walk to shore. A sailboat with a fixed keel is virtually guaranteed to go aground at some point, and it isn't always possible to get loose without a sturdy towboat. Yearly membership with SeaTow sort of the AAA of the water is a good investment. The area's waters are full of shoals, so keep an eye on your depth-sounder.