Six states, including Maryland, now have access to a hybrid upgrade auto insurance product from Fireman’s Fund, enabling customers to replace their damaged vehicle with a more eco-friendly one.

The hybrid option by Fireman’s enables policyholders to upgrade to a hybrid model, or its equivalent, during the first three model years in the event of a total loss. There is also an option available for five model years, according to the company.

For example, if a customer suffers and accident where the vehicle is a total loss and has the three-year option, his 2006-2009 vehicle will be replaced with a new model vehicle. If he adds the hybrid upgrade coverage, Fireman’s will replace it with a new model year hybrid.

With the five-year option, any vehicle model year 2004-2009 will be replaced with a new model year vehicle.

The company says the option is an “attractive choice” for car owners who want to “protect the value of their assets, reduce their energy costs and protect the environment.”

“Many car owners are opting for hybrids and alternative fuel vehicles to reduce fuel costs and pollution,” said Don Soss, vice president of Fireman’s Fund Personal Insurance, in a statement.

The optional enhancements to Fireman’s Prestige Auto Premier policy are available in Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland and Texas.

The policy also includes rental reimbursement coverage up to $10,000 in the event of a loss; injury to pets due to an automobile accident up to $5,000; and handicap vehicle retrofit if permanently disabled in an auto accident up to $10,000.