AUTOS

U.S. Asked to Allow Slower-Deploying Air Bags: Under the current federal standard, they said, the speed and force of deployment actually increases the risk of injury or death, particularly for individuals who aren’t restrained by a seat belt or properly positioned in the seat. “Changing the standard is the best way to enhance--and continue--the life-saving effectiveness of air bags and at the same time reduce the risk of air-bag related fatalities or injuries in the near term,” the American Automobile Manufacturers Assn. said. Rapid deployment of passenger-side air bags has been blamed for the deaths of 18 drivers and 24 passengers since 1990. Auto makers and the public will have until mid-September to comment on the proposals before the Transportation Department.