Ian Ziering Accused of Battery and Assault by Biker Involved in 2023 Altercation

Published: Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at 1:22 am

Ian Ziering Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Road Rage Incident

Actor Ian Ziering is facing a civil lawsuit filed by Jacob Hernandez, stemming from an alleged road rage incident that occurred on December 31, 2023. The complaint, reviewed by PEOPLE, accuses Ziering of battery, assault, intentional infliction of emotional distress, malicious prosecution, negligence, and negligent infliction of emotional distress.

According to the filing, Hernandez and a friend were riding motorbikes when they paused in front of Ziering's vehicle. The complaint alleges that Ziering exited his car and initiated a physical altercation, shoving Hernandez, causing him to fall. Both Hernandez and his friend sustained injuries, and their bikes were damaged. The incident reportedly escalated into a "melee" involving multiple individuals.

The lawsuit further alleges that Ziering used his celebrity to shape the narrative surrounding the incident, providing misleading information to law enforcement and on social media. As a result, Hernandez was arrested in May 2024 and held on $50,000 bail. The charges were later dropped by the District Attorney's office. Hernandez claims the arrest and negative public portrayal caused significant mental health issues, including anxiety and paranoia. He is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, as well as a jury trial.

Following the initial incident, a statement from the LAPD described a physical altercation between a motorist and several minibike riders. The statement indicated that the motorist's vehicle was vandalized, and the motorist and his child did not sustain serious injuries. Ziering later shared his account of the incident on Instagram, stating he was confronted by a group of minibike riders and that he acted to protect himself.

BNN's Perspective:

This case highlights the complexities of public altercations and the potential for differing accounts of events. While the allegations against Mr. Ziering are serious, it's important to remember that this is a civil lawsuit, and the facts are still being presented. The legal process will determine the veracity of the claims and the extent of any liability. It is crucial to avoid jumping to conclusions until all evidence is presented and evaluated.

Keywords: Ian Ziering, lawsuit, battery, assault, road rage, Jacob Hernandez, civil complaint, Los Angeles, altercation, injuries, arrest, mental health, damages, jury trial, LAPD, Instagram, Beverly Hills 90210

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