Problems arise when there's not a human around to intervene, such as at unmanned tollbooths, train station ticket kiosks or self-serve gasoline pumps.

BBC: Microchip technology added to two US credit cards

The MacKays' car collided with a train at an unmanned, gate-free crossing.

BBC: Angus and Margaret MacKay

In countries such as France, Belgium, Switzerland, Britain and the Netherlands, chip-and-pin credit cards are often the only ones accepted at unmanned machines in subway stations, train stations, bike sharing kiosks, parking meters, gas stations, parking garages and other transportation terminals.

BBC: How credit card-friendly is your next destination?