We win.
Change follows.
Nelson Waneka is a two-time winner of Colorado Lawyer of the Year in Insurance Law. 5280 Magazine has named him a top insurance lawyer five years in-a-row. And he's secured some of the largest personal injury and insurance bad faith verdicts in the state. He's the lawyer that other lawyers hire when they need to win.


























Western Slope State Of Mind
Western Slope State Of Mind
Our Founder, Nelson Waneka, started Western Slope Law because the people who call this place home shouldn't have to go to Denver to find one of the best lawyers in the state.
From catastrophic injury cases to insurance bad faith claims, Nelson has dedicated his life to holding wrongdoers accountable and securing life-changing settlements or verdicts for his clients—including several approaching or exceeding $20,000,000. In addition to this, Nelson has handled more than 100 appeals in Colorado state and federal courts, resulting in dozens of landmark decisions that changed Colorado law for the better.
Like you, Nelson and his family call the Western Slope home.
Our Founder, Nelson Waneka, started Western Slope Law because the people who call this place home shouldn't have to go to Denver to find one of the best lawyers in the state.
From catastrophic injury cases to insurance bad faith claims, Nelson has dedicated his life to holding wrongdoers accountable and securing life-changing settlements or verdicts for his clients—including several approaching or exceeding $20,000,000. In addition to this, Nelson has handled more than 100 appeals in Colorado state and federal courts, resulting in dozens of landmark decisions that changed Colorado law for the better.
Like you, Nelson and his family call the Western Slope home.



An Unwavering Commitment To Our Craft
We've obtained some staggering victories for our clients, and they weren't by accident. At Western Slope Law, we play to win. We take fewer cases. We litigate them right. Quality isn't just important to us—it's everything. When you see us in action, we want you to be glad that we're your lawyer and not theirs.
It's All About You
It's All About You
You only get one chance to win your case. If you choose to hire Western Slope Law with respect to a personal injury or insurance claim, you're important to us. You can expect that your calls and emails will be returned promptly. If you want to meet in person, over the phone, or via Zoom—we'll make it happen. You can expect to be on a first-name basis with our Founder, Nelson Waneka, who will personally handle every aspect of your case from start to finish.
You only get one chance to win your case. If you choose to hire Western Slope Law with respect to a personal injury or insurance claim, you're important to us. You can expect that your calls and emails will be returned promptly. If you want to meet in person, over the phone, or via Zoom—we'll make it happen. You can expect to be on a first-name basis with our Founder, Nelson Waneka, who will personally handle every aspect of your case from start to finish.



Serious Results For Serious Cases
We don't ever want to be the lawyer you see in a TV commercial. By limiting the number of cases we take and pursuing them well, we've had some very happy clients indeed. Whether it's for personal injuries or insurance claims, Nelson has secured a long list of multi-million dollar recoveries for his clients.
$20,000,000+ Settlement
Nelson represented the family members of people who were killed when a truck driver crashed into their vehicle at a high rate of speed. After we became involved, the case settled for tens of millions of dollars, ensuring that the surviving family members were financially secure for life.
Personal Injury / Wrongful Death
Trucking Accident
$22,197,266.98 Award
Our clients retained us following property damage to a historic Colorado mansion. The insurance carrier initially valued the loss at approximately $80,000 and eventually drew the line at under $500,000. After we became involved, the claim resulted in a $22,197,266.98 appraisal award in our client's favor.
Insurance
Property Insurance / Claim Following Damage To Historic Mansion
$6,750,000 Settlement
We obtained a $6,750,000 settlement for our client following hail damage to an apartment complex. The settlement was over $6,000,000 more than the insurer paid on the claim, and millions more than the insurer offered during negotiations. A few days before trial, the insurer sent a check to our office for every dollar we demanded.
Insurance
Property Insurance / Hail Damage
$4,742,048.02 Jury Verdict
We obtained a $4,742,048.02 jury verdict for a man in his late 70's who was severely injured in a car crash caused by a drunk driver. When the verdict came down, it was one of the largest verdicts of the year in Douglas County, Colorado. The jury found that the drunk driver was 100% at fault for the crash, and the verdict included an award of punitive damages to punish and deter the driver's conduct.
Personal Injury / Brain Injury
Car Accident Caused By Drunk Driver
$2,500,000 Policy-Limits Settlement
We obtained a $2,500,000 settlement for a bicyclist who suffered a brain injury after being hit by a driver who ran a red light. The driver of the car had no insurance, so we pursued our client's uninsured motorist carrier. The $2,500,000 settlement represented every dollar available under our client's uninsured motorist policy.
Personal Injury / Brain Injury
Bicycle Accident Caused By Uninsured Motorist
$2,300,000 Settlement
We obtained a $2,300,000 settlement for a home builder whose liability insurer refused to defend it against a wrongful death claim brought by the family of a subcontractor killed on the job. The insurer denied a defense to the builder on the ground that the claim was excluded under the policy. After we obtained a summary judgment ruling that the carrier owed coverage, the case settled for millions of dollars.
Insurance
Wrongful Refusal To Defend Home Builder
$900,000 Settlement
We obtained a $900,000 settlement for our client following a car crash with an underinsured motorist. Before our involvement, our client's UM/UIM carrier offered $0 in benefits. After our involvement, the same carrier paid $900,000 to settle with our client.
Insurance
Uninsured Motorist Benefits Following Car Crash
$620,648.46 Judgment
We represented a store owner whose property sustained water damage. The client's claim was for approximately $120,000 in damage to the store and its merchandise. Following a two-week jury trial, we obtained a judgment in our client's favor for more than 5 times this amount.
Insurance
Jury Verdict Against Property Insurer Following Water Damage
$20,000,000+ Settlement
Nelson represented the family members of people who were killed when a truck driver crashed into their vehicle at a high rate of speed. After we became involved, the case settled for tens of millions of dollars, ensuring that the surviving family members were financially secure for life.
Personal Injury / Wrongful Death
Trucking Accident
$22,197,266.98 Award
Our clients retained us following property damage to a historic Colorado mansion. The insurance carrier initially valued the loss at approximately $80,000 and eventually drew the line at under $500,000. After we became involved, the claim resulted in a $22,197,266.98 appraisal award in our client's favor.
Insurance
Property Insurance / Claim Following Damage To Historic Mansion
$6,750,000 Settlement
We obtained a $6,750,000 settlement for our client following hail damage to an apartment complex. The settlement was over $6,000,000 more than the insurer paid on the claim, and millions more than the insurer offered during negotiations. A few days before trial, the insurer sent a check to our office for every dollar we demanded.
Insurance
Property Insurance / Hail Damage
$4,742,048.02 Jury Verdict
We obtained a $4,742,048.02 jury verdict for a man in his late 70's who was severely injured in a car crash caused by a drunk driver. When the verdict came down, it was one of the largest verdicts of the year in Douglas County, Colorado. The jury found that the drunk driver was 100% at fault for the crash, and the verdict included an award of punitive damages to punish and deter the driver's conduct.
Personal Injury / Brain Injury
Car Accident Caused By Drunk Driver
$2,500,000 Policy-Limits Settlement
We obtained a $2,500,000 settlement for a bicyclist who suffered a brain injury after being hit by a driver who ran a red light. The driver of the car had no insurance, so we pursued our client's uninsured motorist carrier. The $2,500,000 settlement represented every dollar available under our client's uninsured motorist policy.
Personal Injury / Brain Injury
Bicycle Accident Caused By Uninsured Motorist
$2,300,000 Settlement
We obtained a $2,300,000 settlement for a home builder whose liability insurer refused to defend it against a wrongful death claim brought by the family of a subcontractor killed on the job. The insurer denied a defense to the builder on the ground that the claim was excluded under the policy. After we obtained a summary judgment ruling that the carrier owed coverage, the case settled for millions of dollars.
Insurance
Wrongful Refusal To Defend Home Builder
$900,000 Settlement
We obtained a $900,000 settlement for our client following a car crash with an underinsured motorist. Before our involvement, our client's UM/UIM carrier offered $0 in benefits. After our involvement, the same carrier paid $900,000 to settle with our client.
Insurance
Uninsured Motorist Benefits Following Car Crash
$620,648.46 Judgment
We represented a store owner whose property sustained water damage. The client's claim was for approximately $120,000 in damage to the store and its merchandise. Following a two-week jury trial, we obtained a judgment in our client's favor for more than 5 times this amount.
Insurance
Jury Verdict Against Property Insurer Following Water Damage
$20,000,000+ Settlement
Nelson represented the family members of people who were killed when a truck driver crashed into their vehicle at a high rate of speed. After we became involved, the case settled for tens of millions of dollars, ensuring that the surviving family members were financially secure for life.
Personal Injury / Wrongful Death
Trucking Accident
$22,197,266.98 Award
Our clients retained us following property damage to a historic Colorado mansion. The insurance carrier initially valued the loss at approximately $80,000 and eventually drew the line at under $500,000. After we became involved, the claim resulted in a $22,197,266.98 appraisal award in our client's favor.
Insurance
Property Insurance / Claim Following Damage To Historic Mansion
$6,750,000 Settlement
We obtained a $6,750,000 settlement for our client following hail damage to an apartment complex. The settlement was over $6,000,000 more than the insurer paid on the claim, and millions more than the insurer offered during negotiations. A few days before trial, the insurer sent a check to our office for every dollar we demanded.
Insurance
Property Insurance / Hail Damage
$4,742,048.02 Jury Verdict
We obtained a $4,742,048.02 jury verdict for a man in his late 70's who was severely injured in a car crash caused by a drunk driver. When the verdict came down, it was one of the largest verdicts of the year in Douglas County, Colorado. The jury found that the drunk driver was 100% at fault for the crash, and the verdict included an award of punitive damages to punish and deter the driver's conduct.
Personal Injury / Brain Injury
Car Accident Caused By Drunk Driver
$2,500,000 Policy-Limits Settlement
We obtained a $2,500,000 settlement for a bicyclist who suffered a brain injury after being hit by a driver who ran a red light. The driver of the car had no insurance, so we pursued our client's uninsured motorist carrier. The $2,500,000 settlement represented every dollar available under our client's uninsured motorist policy.
Personal Injury / Brain Injury
Bicycle Accident Caused By Uninsured Motorist
$2,300,000 Settlement
We obtained a $2,300,000 settlement for a home builder whose liability insurer refused to defend it against a wrongful death claim brought by the family of a subcontractor killed on the job. The insurer denied a defense to the builder on the ground that the claim was excluded under the policy. After we obtained a summary judgment ruling that the carrier owed coverage, the case settled for millions of dollars.
Insurance
Wrongful Refusal To Defend Home Builder
$900,000 Settlement
We obtained a $900,000 settlement for our client following a car crash with an underinsured motorist. Before our involvement, our client's UM/UIM carrier offered $0 in benefits. After our involvement, the same carrier paid $900,000 to settle with our client.
Insurance
Uninsured Motorist Benefits Following Car Crash
$620,648.46 Judgment
We represented a store owner whose property sustained water damage. The client's claim was for approximately $120,000 in damage to the store and its merchandise. Following a two-week jury trial, we obtained a judgment in our client's favor for more than 5 times this amount.
Insurance
Jury Verdict Against Property Insurer Following Water Damage
Don't Settle For Less
Don't Settle For Less
Personal injuries and insurance losses can affect every part of your life. When you're picking up the pieces after a tragic event, the last thing you want to do is deal with an insurance company whose only goal is to pay you as little as possible.
A study conducted by the Insurance Research Council concluded that, on average, injured people who hire a lawyer settle their claims for 3.5 times more than people who try to go it alone. And not all lawyers are the same.
You won't find another law firm on the Western Slope more versed in insurance than us. When we talk, insurance companies listen. Let us take it from here.
Personal injuries and insurance losses can affect every part of your life. When you're picking up the pieces after a tragic event, the last thing you want to do is deal with an insurance company whose only goal is to pay you as little as possible.
A study conducted by the Insurance Research Council concluded that, on average, injured people who hire a lawyer settle their claims for 3.5 times more than people who try to go it alone. And not all lawyers are the same.
You won't find another law firm on the Western Slope more versed in insurance than us. When we talk, insurance companies listen. Let us take it from here.



Cases We Handle
Personal Injury
Insurance
Premises Liability
Search

Feb 17, 2024
Personal Injury
If you've lost a family member in a wrongful death incident on the Western Slope of Colorado, including areas like Grand Junction, Glenwood Springs, Montrose, Aspen, and Vail, it's essential to seek legal guidance from an experienced wrongful death lawyer.

Feb 16, 2024
Insurance
Wildfires can cause widespread destruction, necessitating legal assistance for insurance claims. This article explores the impacts of wildfires, common types of damage, and the role of a wildfire claims lawyer in helping property owners navigate insurance claims effectively.

Feb 15, 2024
Insurance
Many Colorado homeowners struggle with denied or underpaid roof claims, even for legitimate storm damage. In the past year alone, the Colorado Division of Insurance received nearly 7,000 consumer complaints and inquiries about insurance issues, recovering $26.4 million for policyholders where claims had been wrongly delayed or denied.

Feb 14, 2024
Insurance
Uninsured/underinsured motorist claims can present significant challenges for individuals involved in accidents with uninsured or underinsured drivers. This article examines the complexities of uninsured/underinsured motorist claims, common issues faced by claimants, and the vital role of a uninsured/underinsured motorist claims lawyer in securing rightful compensation for accident victims.

Feb 13, 2024
Personal Injury
Uber, Lyft, and rideshare accidents can result in serious injuries and complex legal matters, often necessitating the expertise of an Uber/Lyft/rideshare accident lawyer. This article explores the causes of rideshare accidents, the types of injuries that can occur, and the crucial role of an Uber/Lyft/rideshare accident attorney in advocating for your rights and securing the compensation you need and deserve following an injury.

Feb 12, 2024
Personal Injury
A crash involving a semi-truck or tractor-trailer can have devastating consequences, leaving victims with serious injuries, financial burdens, and emotional distress. If you've been involved in a trucking accident in Western Colorado, including areas like Grand Junction, Glenwood Springs, Montrose, and Vail, it's crucial to seek legal representation from a knowledgeable and experienced truck accident lawyer. Here's what you need to know about Colorado truck accident law and how our legal team can help you navigate your case to obtain more compensation.
Personal Injury
Insurance
Premises Liability
Search

Feb 17, 2024
Personal Injury
If you've lost a family member in a wrongful death incident on the Western Slope of Colorado, including areas like Grand Junction, Glenwood Springs, Montrose, Aspen, and Vail, it's essential to seek legal guidance from an experienced wrongful death lawyer.

Feb 16, 2024
Insurance
Wildfires can cause widespread destruction, necessitating legal assistance for insurance claims. This article explores the impacts of wildfires, common types of damage, and the role of a wildfire claims lawyer in helping property owners navigate insurance claims effectively.

Feb 15, 2024
Insurance
Many Colorado homeowners struggle with denied or underpaid roof claims, even for legitimate storm damage. In the past year alone, the Colorado Division of Insurance received nearly 7,000 consumer complaints and inquiries about insurance issues, recovering $26.4 million for policyholders where claims had been wrongly delayed or denied.

Feb 14, 2024
Insurance
Uninsured/underinsured motorist claims can present significant challenges for individuals involved in accidents with uninsured or underinsured drivers. This article examines the complexities of uninsured/underinsured motorist claims, common issues faced by claimants, and the vital role of a uninsured/underinsured motorist claims lawyer in securing rightful compensation for accident victims.
Personal Injury
Insurance
Premises Liability
Search

Feb 17, 2024
Personal Injury
If you've lost a family member in a wrongful death incident on the Western Slope of Colorado, including areas like Grand Junction, Glenwood Springs, Montrose, Aspen, and Vail, it's essential to seek legal guidance from an experienced wrongful death lawyer.

Feb 16, 2024
Insurance
Wildfires can cause widespread destruction, necessitating legal assistance for insurance claims. This article explores the impacts of wildfires, common types of damage, and the role of a wildfire claims lawyer in helping property owners navigate insurance claims effectively.

Feb 15, 2024
Insurance
Many Colorado homeowners struggle with denied or underpaid roof claims, even for legitimate storm damage. In the past year alone, the Colorado Division of Insurance received nearly 7,000 consumer complaints and inquiries about insurance issues, recovering $26.4 million for policyholders where claims had been wrongly delayed or denied.

Feb 14, 2024
Insurance
Uninsured/underinsured motorist claims can present significant challenges for individuals involved in accidents with uninsured or underinsured drivers. This article examines the complexities of uninsured/underinsured motorist claims, common issues faced by claimants, and the vital role of a uninsured/underinsured motorist claims lawyer in securing rightful compensation for accident victims.

Feb 13, 2024
Personal Injury
Uber, Lyft, and rideshare accidents can result in serious injuries and complex legal matters, often necessitating the expertise of an Uber/Lyft/rideshare accident lawyer. This article explores the causes of rideshare accidents, the types of injuries that can occur, and the crucial role of an Uber/Lyft/rideshare accident attorney in advocating for your rights and securing the compensation you need and deserve following an injury.

Feb 12, 2024
Personal Injury
A crash involving a semi-truck or tractor-trailer can have devastating consequences, leaving victims with serious injuries, financial burdens, and emotional distress. If you've been involved in a trucking accident in Western Colorado, including areas like Grand Junction, Glenwood Springs, Montrose, and Vail, it's crucial to seek legal representation from a knowledgeable and experienced truck accident lawyer. Here's what you need to know about Colorado truck accident law and how our legal team can help you navigate your case to obtain more compensation.
Personal Injury
Insurance
Premises Liability
Search

Feb 17, 2024
Personal Injury
If you've lost a family member in a wrongful death incident on the Western Slope of Colorado, including areas like Grand Junction, Glenwood Springs, Montrose, Aspen, and Vail, it's essential to seek legal guidance from an experienced wrongful death lawyer.

Feb 16, 2024
Insurance
Wildfires can cause widespread destruction, necessitating legal assistance for insurance claims. This article explores the impacts of wildfires, common types of damage, and the role of a wildfire claims lawyer in helping property owners navigate insurance claims effectively.

Feb 15, 2024
Insurance
Many Colorado homeowners struggle with denied or underpaid roof claims, even for legitimate storm damage. In the past year alone, the Colorado Division of Insurance received nearly 7,000 consumer complaints and inquiries about insurance issues, recovering $26.4 million for policyholders where claims had been wrongly delayed or denied.
Areas We Serve
Serving all of Colorado, with an emphasis on the people and communities of the Western Slope.
Grand Junction
Montrose
Aspen
Glenwood Springs
Carbondale
Basalt
Gunnison
Vail
Steamboat Springs
Eagle
Rifle
Durango
Telluride
Crested Butte



How do your fees work?
At Western Slope Law, we offer a variety of fee structures depending on your needs. Some clients choose to hire us on an hourly basis. Others choose a hybrid agreement. But most opt for a contingency fee —which means that you don't pay us any attorney fees unless we recover money on your behalf. Under a contingency agreement, our fee is a percentage of the amounts we recover on your claim. Call us to see which fee structure is best for you and your case.



Trusted in the toughest moments
Injuries, accidents, and legal cases are difficult on every level. In order to maximize the value of your case, you need someone with the know-how to get it done, the reputation to back it up, and a track record of obtaining life-changing settlements.
"Nelson is one of the best lawyers in Colorado. He has assisted me with business and personal legal issues over the years, and every time he shows up professionally and takes the appropriate action to serve each situation well. You won't be disappointed hiring Nelson for your legal needs!"

Sarah V.
Client
Feb 27, 2025
Colorado’s scenic highways are a dream ride for motorcyclists—but they also come with serious risks.
Before the dry, hot summer kicks in, take the time to review your home insurance policy and ask for necessary changes.
From slip-and-fall settlements to million-dollar malpractice verdicts, the stories here offer a glimpse into just how high the stakes can be when acci...
If you’ve been injured or your vehicle was damaged in a car accident caused by another driver, you have the right to seek compensation from the at-fau...
Jan 15, 2025
When someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing leads to serious emotional trauma, it’s natural to wonder if you can sue for e...
Jan 14, 2025
Dealing with an insurance company that refuses to settle fairly or honor a valid claim can be frustrating and stressful.
Vail Pass, a high-altitude section of Interstate 70 located between Vail and Copper Mountain, is a critical route for travelers crossing Colorado’s Ro...
Interstate 70 plays a critical role in connecting communities, commerce, and travel throughout Colorado. Unfortunately, its high volume of commercial...
Dec 6, 2024
Driving along Colorado's I-70 offers breathtaking mountain views and connects travelers to some of the state's most popular destinations. However, fre...
Dec 6, 2024
Colorado's snowy peaks and world-renowned ski resorts attract millions of visitors each year, offering thrilling adventures amid breathtaking landscap...
Nov 16, 2024
Involving an attorney early on can help protect your rights and maximize your settlement, especially if there are disputes about fault, injuries, or d...
Choosing the right accident lawyer involves considering their experience, reputation, and the way they handle cases similar to yours.
Feb 27, 2025
Colorado’s scenic highways are a dream ride for motorcyclists—but they also come with serious risks.
Before the dry, hot summer kicks in, take the time to review your home insurance policy and ask for necessary changes.
From slip-and-fall settlements to million-dollar malpractice verdicts, the stories here offer a glimpse into just how high the stakes can be when acci...
If you’ve been injured or your vehicle was damaged in a car accident caused by another driver, you have the right to seek compensation from the at-fau...
Jan 15, 2025
When someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing leads to serious emotional trauma, it’s natural to wonder if you can sue for e...
Jan 14, 2025
Dealing with an insurance company that refuses to settle fairly or honor a valid claim can be frustrating and stressful.
Vail Pass, a high-altitude section of Interstate 70 located between Vail and Copper Mountain, is a critical route for travelers crossing Colorado’s Ro...
Interstate 70 plays a critical role in connecting communities, commerce, and travel throughout Colorado. Unfortunately, its high volume of commercial...
Dec 6, 2024
Driving along Colorado's I-70 offers breathtaking mountain views and connects travelers to some of the state's most popular destinations. However, fre...
Dec 6, 2024
Colorado's snowy peaks and world-renowned ski resorts attract millions of visitors each year, offering thrilling adventures amid breathtaking landscap...
Nov 16, 2024
Involving an attorney early on can help protect your rights and maximize your settlement, especially if there are disputes about fault, injuries, or d...
Choosing the right accident lawyer involves considering their experience, reputation, and the way they handle cases similar to yours.
Feb 27, 2025
Colorado’s scenic highways are a dream ride for motorcyclists—but they also come with serious risks.
Before the dry, hot summer kicks in, take the time to review your home insurance policy and ask for necessary changes.
From slip-and-fall settlements to million-dollar malpractice verdicts, the stories here offer a glimpse into just how high the stakes can be when acci...
If you’ve been injured or your vehicle was damaged in a car accident caused by another driver, you have the right to seek compensation from the at-fau...
Jan 15, 2025
When someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing leads to serious emotional trauma, it’s natural to wonder if you can sue for e...
Jan 14, 2025
Dealing with an insurance company that refuses to settle fairly or honor a valid claim can be frustrating and stressful.
Vail Pass, a high-altitude section of Interstate 70 located between Vail and Copper Mountain, is a critical route for travelers crossing Colorado’s Ro...
Interstate 70 plays a critical role in connecting communities, commerce, and travel throughout Colorado. Unfortunately, its high volume of commercial...
Dec 6, 2024
Driving along Colorado's I-70 offers breathtaking mountain views and connects travelers to some of the state's most popular destinations. However, fre...
Dec 6, 2024
Colorado's snowy peaks and world-renowned ski resorts attract millions of visitors each year, offering thrilling adventures amid breathtaking landscap...
Nov 16, 2024
Involving an attorney early on can help protect your rights and maximize your settlement, especially if there are disputes about fault, injuries, or d...
Choosing the right accident lawyer involves considering their experience, reputation, and the way they handle cases similar to yours.
Advice on a case? Let's talk.
At Western Slope Law, we won't charge you to review the facts of your case and see if we can help. Sometimes this takes one meeting, sometimes it takes three. Regardless, you won't have to pay us to evaluate your case. Contact us for a free consultation today. We can talk over the phone, meet in person, or videoconference via Zoom. Whatever works best for you, works best for us.