Illinois Woman Sues Las Vegas Bar Over Injuries From Mechanical Ride

Key points

• Amber Zabran, an Illinois resident, filed a lawsuit on September 30, 2026, against The Nerd bar, located inside the Neonopolis complex at 450 Fremont St. in Las Vegas.
• The incident occurred on November 22, 2025, when Zabran rode a mechanical attraction described in the suit as a 'mechanical penis' ride, which is operated via a joystick panel by an employee.
• The complaint alleges that Zabran’s foot or ankle slipped into a cutout section beneath the device’s main shaft, causing her to be thrown from the seat and suffer severe physical trauma, nerve damage, and mental stress.
• Zabran claims she was not asked to sign a liability waiver or given verbal safety instructions before riding, despite the bar’s website currently stating that a waiver is required prior to use.
• The lawsuit names Imagine Adventures Las Vegas LLC, Imagine Adventures Holdings LLC, and owner-operator Jonathan Borchetta as co-defendants, citing negligence, defective equipment, and vicarious liability.
• The plaintiff is seeking damages exceeding $15,000 for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, alongside attorney fees.

Background

This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding safety protocols and liability waivers for novelty attractions in Las Vegas entertainment venues. While the bar’s website now mandates a signed waiver before riding, the lawsuit alleges that this policy was not enforced at the time of the incident. The case is part of a broader pattern of civil litigation in Nevada involving personal injuries at entertainment venues, where plaintiffs often argue that venues have a duty to maintain safe equipment and provide adequate warnings to patrons.

How outlets are covering it

The Independent reported the incident as a claim of injury from a 'mechanical genitals ride,' focusing on the potential for permanent harm. KSNV framed the story around the lawsuit itself, emphasizing the legal action against the bar. The Las Vegas Review-Journal categorized the story under 'Civil Courts,' highlighting the legal proceedings in Clark County. Casino.org provided the most detailed account, specifying the plaintiff’s name (Amber Zabran), the exact date of the incident (November 22, 2025), the specific legal doctrines cited (including res ipsa loquitur), and the names of the defendants. All sources agree on the core facts of the injury and the lawsuit, but differ in the level of detail provided regarding the legal claims and the specific entities being sued.

Why it matters

This case underscores the legal risks associated with novelty attractions in entertainment venues, particularly when safety protocols and liability waivers are not consistently enforced. It may prompt other venues to review their safety measures and waiver policies to mitigate liability. Additionally, it highlights the potential for severe injuries from seemingly lighthearted attractions, raising questions about the duty of care owed to patrons by venue operators.

What to watch

The case will proceed through the Clark County District Court, where the bar’s representatives may respond to the allegations. The outcome could depend on whether the court finds that the bar failed to meet its duty of care by not providing safety instructions or requiring a waiver. The plaintiff’s claim for permanent injuries may also influence the severity of the damages awarded, if any.