Peak road is one of the country’s most dangerous

With 25 fatal and serious crashes between 2007 and 2011 compared to 18 from 2002 to 2006, the A5012 stretch running between Pikehall and Matlock is named second in a table revealing the country’s deadliest roads.

The A57 Buxton to Macclesfield route is the UK’s fourth most dangerous route, according to the Road Safety Foundation chart.

Edmund King, president of the AA motoring group, said: “Most drivers assume that motorways or dual carriageways are the most dangerous roads due to the higher speed of traffic.

“This report clearly dispels that myth as the risk to road users is now seven times greater on single carriageway A-roads than motorways.

“Drivers need to be aware of the added risks and adapt their driving accordingly.”

A Derbyshire County Council spokesman said: “We’re working hard to make our roads safer but we face a number of challenges.”

The spokesman added it offers a range of measures to cut road deaths and injuries – including discounted training to new and qualified motorcyclists.

The Road Safety Foundation’s list also includes the A54 Congleton to Buxton, the A5004 Whaley Bridge to Buxton and the A619 Baslow to Totley.