Pedestrians do regularly walk out in front of traffic against the light. Cars, especially taxis, will speed up to run yellow/red lights, even when there are crowds of pedestrians at the corner spilling onto the streets. Bikes often run lights and ride against traffic. Cars and pedestrians block bike lanes constantly.
It's remarkable so few accidents happen, really. I think part of it is, although NYC drivers can be annoying and aggressive, they are also skilled and attentive.