Behold! The next-generation bib for busy drivers
Photo: AutoSport Catalog
By David Menzies
This just in from the What Will They Think of Next? file …
In our car-obsessed culture – in which eating on the run and making use of the drive-through window is de rigueur commuting behaviour – it is sometimes challenging to stay neat and tidy behind the wheel. Especially when one happens to be wolfing down a Baconater with poutine.
It goes without saying that condiment stains on clothing and fast-food debris splattered upon fine Corinthian leather is terribly unsightly. So thank goodness the fine folks at AutoSport Catalog (www.autosportcatalog.com) are now selling The Drib for slobs on the run.
The Drib is a foldable, washable, shoulder-to-knee bib designed to be worn in the car. An absorbent fabric front and moisture-resistant back keep spills in check. As well, large pockets on the bottom catch food spills. And shoulder weights negate the need for awkward ties and clips.
But wait – there’s more! The Drib folds into its own pocket for compact storage, allowing the industrial-strength super-sized bib to be pressed into service as a lumbar pillow.
While undeniably practical, there is, alas, a downside to The Drib: namely, does any adult with all his marbles still intact really want to be seen wearing infant-inspired haberdashery in public? (After all, The Drib is an accessory that makes The Snuggie look like formal wear.)
Then again, while the sight of a mature person wearing The Drib is surely knee-slapper material, there is surely a public safety argument to be made when it comes to donning such a thing.
Recall the case of Stella Liebeck, a 79-year-old woman from Albuquerque, N.M., who made headlines in 1992 after spilling a cup of McDonald’s coffee on her lap.
The mishap led to Liebeck’s thighs, groin and buttocks getting scalded. And because we live in a day and age wherein we aren’t responsible for our own actions, Liebeck promptly sued McDonald’s for having the temerity to sell hot coffee that was ... hot. (The Golden Arches eventually settled with Liebeck out of court for an undisclosed amount and Liebeck is the reason why most coffee cups now post the astute warning, “Caution: Contents hot.”)
Thus, for the Liebecks of the world, perhaps The Drib has merit in terms of reducing the number of trips to the doctor’s office – and the courtroom.
Posted by: Pindo Perilous | 2009-11-25 6:32:29 PM
The insurance companies will "eat this up".What is wrong with people these days.Slow down,take a deep breath and thank your higher power for your children and star light nights.
Posted by: Dale | 2009-11-25 6:39:39 PM
Considering I drive a lot for my job, this might not be a bad thing. Too many coffee stains and food dribbles on light coloured shirts would make this a shirt saver for sure.
Posted by: Stephanie Szewczyk | 2009-11-25 7:05:06 PM
This has got to be the most stupidest invention ever!! Now a days we, as citizens are told we aren't allowed to drive with anything that removes our attention from the road ie. cellphones. I don't understand how there can be laws against using a cellphone while driving and yet we are still allowing, practically encouraging people to eat while driving? This is insane! When you are driving a vehicle, the only thing that should be in your hands is the steering wheel! Anything else could leave you less prepared when faced with a sudden collision! This also can be applied to those who smoke while driving. There is always a chance you could drop your cigarette and the car interior could catch on fire or, perhaps it could even burn you. Also, the simple fact of handling fire while trying to drive a vehicle probably isn't the best idea. I simply can't understand how society keeps encouraging us to include driving onto our list of things to multi-task. Driving is dangerous enough as it is, and remember, you might know the passengers of the other car...or be related.
Posted by: Brittany | 2009-11-25 7:05:50 PM
I think this is an awesome idea. Just yesterday, while juggling a red bull and 6 inch veggie sub from Subway, I thought of something like this as lettuce and lite mayo dripped all over my jeans. Whoever invented this is a genious. I will totally buy it.
Posted by: Zed | 2009-11-25 11:52:25 PM
Come on America! Just throw on your "eatin' dress" before you climb in behind the wheel!
Posted by: Gail | 2009-11-26 4:21:11 PM
I know people that should wear one of these no matter where or why they are eating.