S.C. Code § 54-15-220
Every pilot cruising or standing out to sea shall offer his services first to the vessel nearest the bar unless specifically ordered to the contrary by the authorized official of the group of licensed pilots on duty at the time and except when he sees a more distant vessel in distress, in which event he shall aid the vessel in distress, if practicable. Any pilot neglecting or refusing to comply with this requirement as to his services may have his license suspended or revoked by the South Carolina Commissioners of Pilotage, depending on their judgment of the circumstances. However, nothing herein shall extend, or be construed to extend, to vessels of the description mentioned in Section 54-15-260, all of which vessels it shall be the duty of every pilot to avoid as much as possible, whenever they are known to or justly suspected by him.
S.C. Code § 54-15-220