What is the ruling on abandoning a broken-down vehicle in a public place until it is left derelict, and what advice is given to owners?

Summary

Leaving a broken vehicle in a public place until it becomes an abandoned road hazard can obstruct traffic, endanger road users and spoil the surroundings. Obstructing traffic to the point of causing harm is prohibited and forbidden in Islamic law, based on the maxim that there should be neither harm nor reciprocating harm. Owners are advised to dispose of old vehicles properly, such as at a scrap yard, while the public may report abandoned vehicles to the local authority, which may remove and dispose of them after notice is given.

Written in our own words from the original fatwa — check the source before acting on it.