I read the OP and realized that my current Ritchey WCS alloy bars on the bike I ride most regularly are 4+ years old and have survived two front end crashes. Just ordered a set of Ritchey Pro's (only $39 at JensonUSA too..). They're on the way.
Scary to read about any front end failures. Very preventable, just need to do an inventory check. The stem is newer, but probably time to look at that too.