At an intersection before pulling out, the appropriate rule to follow involves checking both directions carefully to ensure it is safe to proceed. The sequence of left, right, left emphasizes the importance of first checking to the left for oncoming traffic, followed by checking to the right, and then verifying once more to the left before making your move. This pattern helps drivers to be aware of any vehicles that may be approaching from either side, thus promoting safety at intersections.
The other options do not follow this systematic approach. For instance, simply stopping, looking, and then going (as noted in another choice) may not adequately reinforce checking both ways for potentially hidden traffic or hazards. The left-right-left approach is particularly effective because it ensures you do not miss any vehicles that may not be visible initially, as traffic can often approach from various angles at intersections.