The damage of fiber reinforced polymer matrix composite materials induced by impact load is one of the most critical factors that restrict extensive use of these materials. The behavior of composite structures under transient impact loading and the ways to enhance their characteristics to withstand this type of dynamic loading might be of specific significance in the aerospace sector and other applications. This paper critically reviews the important parameters from the published literature influencing the impact resistance and the damage mechanics of fiber-reinforced composite materials. Firstly, the paper reviews the influence of impact velocity on various failure modes. Following this, a comprehensive review on the four key parameters specifically material, geometry, event and the environmental-related conditions that affect the structural behavior of fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites to impact loading is discussed. The review further outlines areas to improve the impact damage characteristics of composites and then conclude with a summary of the discussion on the future work relating to the most influencing parameters. © 2019 Elsevier Ltd