Diya is Sharia-set compensation for loss of life or injury, and varies with the type of offence.
Types and amounts
| Type | Rule in general |
|---|---|
| Intentional killing | Retribution; the heirs may pardon free, for diya, or settle for more |
| Quasi-intentional | Heavier diya |
| Accidental (most traffic deaths) | Lighter diya, plus expiation |
In practice, accidental diya for a Muslim man is SAR 300,000 and intentional diya where retribution is waived SAR 400,000; a woman's diya is half. Courts and current rules decide each case.
Injuries
Injuries carry set amounts by organ or function lost, and the judge assesses the rest from final medical reports.
Who pays in traffic accidents?
- Compulsory motor insurance covers diya to third parties within the policy limit.
- The at-fault driver pays any excess.
- Fault percentages in the accident report decide liability. Read car accident claims and insurance disputes.
Diya forms part of the deceased's estate and is divided among heirs. Read the inheritance calculator.
An accident or diya case?
Usus Law Firm handles criminal and private-right compensation cases, in Riyadh and Tabuk, and advises in English.
This article is general legal information and is not a substitute for advice on your specific case. Court proceedings in Saudi Arabia are in Arabic; the official Arabic text of each law prevails.
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