Having an accident while driving the car and the death of a passenger

Q: I would like to tell your Eminence that my brother and I were traveling in the desert. On the road, the car hit a bump and my brother's head knocked against the roof of the car. I called at him but he did not reply until after nearly half an hour. I went with him to the hospital of Tathlith, though it is about 175km away. He went into the hospital on 28 Dhul-Hijjah, 1413 A.H. I visited him with the senior traffic officer and some of his relatives. He forwent me and signed to this. Later on, he was moved to the hospital of `Asir where he died on Wednesday night 12 Muharram, 1414 A.H. The reason of death as reported by forensic medicine was due to vasospasm after a fracture in the spine in the wake of a car accident. It is worth mentioning that I gave Diyah (blood money) to the deceased's family. I hope your Eminence could guide me to what I should do to fulfill Allah's Right over me. May Allah reward you well!

A: If the case is as you have mentioned, you should offer Kaffarah (expiation) for involuntary manslaughter, which is freeing a believing slave and if you do not find, you should fast for two consecutive months. (Part No. 21; Page No. 471) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.