with a punishment that will compel them to keep their livestock away from roads meant for traffic.

• Decision of the Council of Senior Scholars concerning liability for animals that block the roads
  Decision no. 111, dated 12/11/1403 AH:

The text of the decision reads:

First: There is no liability for animals that stray onto asphalted public roads; if they are struck and perish while standing on those roads, they are considered forfeit, while their owner is sinful for having let them wander and for his negligence. Such neglect leads to grave dangers: loss of life and property and the repetition of tragic accidents. By contrast, safeguarding the animals and keeping them away from public roads promotes safety, secures the highways, and preserves lives and property. This fulfills the requirements of the Sacred Law, achieves the public interest, and obeys the command of the ruler.

Second: Since the ruler has already warned livestock owners not to bring their animals near public roads, the Council believes he must reaffirm that warning and inform owners that their animals will be forfeit if they stray onto the roads and are struck. This should be broadcast through every medium—television, radio—and conveyed to tribal chiefs and community leaders. And Allah grants success.

May Allah bless our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and his Companions.

Council of Senior Scholars