Yes, a slight rise in the road can put car headlights right in your eyes and the road in shadow, and make the road essentially invisible as you climb up the other side.

Bike lights keep getting brighter. Years ago, I had a 200 lumen light that amazed the other riders by how bright it was. But it was barely enough for 18 mph riding. I did the same thing, added a 180 lumen flashlight to light up farther distances.

Now, my 2000 lumen (yes, it's been measured 2000!) light is much too bright on high for dark country roads, but is really nice on busy urban streets.