High School Football Referee Hit by Golf Cart on Field Sues School District

Football and golf don’t mix.

High school football referee Kenneth Brooks was struck by a runaway golf cart on the field at Thurston High School in Springfield, Ore., two years ago and now is suing the school district for negligence, KATU.com reports.

According to the lawsuit, a golf cart was left unattended by the school’s employees with the key still in the ignition when a 2-year-old boy climbed inside and somehow pressed the accelerator. The cart then rolled onto the field and hit Brooks, sending him into the air before hitting the ground.

The accident took place before the start of a football game in October 2008. A school district spokesman told KVLA that Brooks stayed to referee part of the game before seeking medical treatment.

Brooks reportedly suffered a herniated disc and a concussion among other injuries. According to the lawsuit, the disc herniation is permanent damage.

The suit also names the toddler’s mother, Brenda Newell, for allowing her child to climb inside the cart.

Brooks is seeking $264,722.51 compensation for damages and medical expenses.