The Iowa Department of Transportation wants to remind motorists that fall is breeding season for deer, so chances are you'll likely spot some while driving along the state's roadways.

Just pay attention to those deer crossing signs.

"We actually get this question on a pretty regular basis: 'Why don't you put these signs where it is safer for the deer to cross?'" the Iowa DOT said in a Facebook post Tuesday.

Here's why:

"Deer can't read signs. Drivers can," the Facebook post continued. "This sign isn't intended to tell deer where to cross, it's for drivers to be alert that deer have been in this area in the past."

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The post, as you'd might expect, triggered quite the response from Facebook users, with dozens of comments along the lines of "please tell me you're joking" and "the fact that you have to answer a question like this disturbing."

But it never hurts to be crystal clear in order to be safe — especially when there were 7,163 crashes reported to law enforcement across Iowa in 2016, Tyler Harms, a wildlife biometrician with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, told the Register earlier this month.

"They’re moving out of areas of cover to areas where they can feed," Harms said. "They might not have to go very far from cover to food, but in other cases they may have to travel longer distances in order to satisfy those needs."

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According to a recent study by State Farm Insurance, Iowa drivers have a 1 in 69 chance of hitting a deer. Those odds rank fourth-highest in the country.

Additionally, 65 percent of Iowa's animal-collision claims are filed between September and November, per Farmers Insurance.

"Don't veer for deer," Harms reminds.

"Be sure you’re vigilant and alert when you’re driving, and that will be helpful," he said.

Interested in trending Iowa news? Follow @AaYoung15 on Twitter.

How to avoid a deer collision:

Slow down, particularly at dusk and dawn.

If you see one deer, be prepared for more deer to cross the road.

Pay attention to deer crossing signs.

Always buckle up, every trip, every time.

Use your high beams to see farther, except when there is oncoming traffic.

Brake if you can, but avoid swerving, which could result in a more severe crash.

Remain focused on the road, scanning for hazards, including animals.

Avoid distractions, such as devices or eating, which might cause you to miss seeing an animal.

Do not rely on products such as deer whistles, which are not proven to be effective.

If riding a motorcycle, always wear protective gear and keep focused on the road ahead.

— State Farm Insurance