I believe in NYC, you are required to use the bike lane if it exists. Of course people often double park in bike lanes. The 'protected' bike lanes are hazardous, with electric bikes, scooters, citibikes, and private bikes, frequently going the wrong way....but I use them anyway. Pedestrians crossing against the light while on a mobile is frequently a feature. The 8th and 6th Ave protected lanes require a high degree of care. I will sometimes stray out of the dedicated lane on CPW when there are too many folks riding the wrong way, and then return a bit further along.