Senators get no answers on safety

Associated Press

WASHINGTON

There were apologies and long-winded explanations, but after nearly four hours of testimony about exploding Takata air bags, senators never got a clear answer to the question most people have: whether or not their cars are safe.

During a hearing Thursday before the Senate Commerce Committee, Takata’s quality chief apologized for the air-bag malfunctions, and a senior Honda executive acknowledged his company didn’t comply with disclosure laws.

But an exchange between Sen. Dean Heller, R-Nev., and Honda Executive Vice President Rick Schostek summed up the day.

Heller, who has an 18-year-old daughter, pointedly asked if it was safe for her to drive their 2007 Honda Civic.

“We are trying to understand if there is any additional risk out there,” Schostek said.