The law is clear – except in the case needing to call 999 or 112 when it’s not safe or impractical to stop, you should not use a handheld mobile phone while driving. The only legal way to use any phone while driving is to make or receive calls using a properly-installed hands-free kit.
Firstly, make sure you don’t find having your sat-nav showing or talking directions to you distracting. If you do, you’re better off not using it in the first place. If you do plan on using your phone as a sat nav, then get it fully charged up and your destination set before you set off. Set it in a cradle, ideally out of reach and not stuck to the windscreen that can obscure your view. Tell people your ETA before you set off to avoid any temptation to need to update them yourself. Some sat nav apps allow other people to track your journey too – again, meaning you won’t feel the need to keep them posted.
You’re right – but your phone is probably one of the biggest distractions. Apart from your phone, think about what else can you do to make your driving environment a calm one. Things like knowing your route to avoid the need to check a map and avoiding heated conversations with passengers can really help.