Phil Colacioppo was unpacking his family van after a weekend trip on Monday night when a thunderstorm rumbled through his Lake Grove, Long Island, neighborhood.
He says at about 9:20 p.m., he heard a loud boom and experienced a sharp smack to his back. Then he felt shockwaves moving through his body.
After a trip to a nearby hospital, Colacioppo was released and appeared in good condition Tuesday.
The marketing executive says removing a ring and watch while unpacking may have helped prevent further damage. He also joked that he may test his luck by buying a lottery ticket.