Almost half of UK drivers have overtaken at “lethal” speeds on single carriageway country roads at least once in the past year, according to a survey published.

Research into 942 drivers conducted at the end of last year has shown 47 per cent admitted speeding at more than 60 miles per hour to overtake on rural roads at least once in the past year. The research for road safety charity Brake and Direct Line insurance showed 23 per cent admitted that they do this at least once a month.

The results have prompted Brake to renew calls for the government to act to tackle drivers who overtake irresponsibly and speed on rural roads.

The charity said the government could do this by reducing the default speed limit on single carriageway roads to 50 mph or lower, with lower limits on roads where there are particular risks.

It has also called for an awareness campaign to tackle speeding and overtaking on rural roads.

The charity said government figures show drivers are much more likely to die on a rural road than any other type, with speed and overtaking major factors in causing deaths.

Ellen Booth, Brake campaigns officer, said: “It’s high time we tackle this irresponsible and downright dangerous love of speed on our roads.

“Speeding down a country road isn’t the epitome of freedom – it’s the epitome of stupidity.

“Drivers who overtake at speed on country roads aren’t just risking their own lives – they are selfishly endangering their passengers and anyone coming the other way.”

Andy Goldby, director of motor underwriting at Direct Line, said: “Two people die on single carriageway roads every day, and these deaths could be prevented.

“Our own data suggests that young drivers and their passengers are even more likely to die on this type of road. Drivers should remember that patience is a virtue when it comes to deciding to overtake another vehicle at speed, as it could be a life-saver.”